Free distribution of jute bags was taken up by the city police as a tribute to the Father of the Nation.
To mark Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, the Delhi Police on Wednesday adopted Gandhigiri (a term in use describe a strategy to win hearts) to convince shoppers to avoid use of plastic bags. True to the concept, cops spotted shoppers with plastic bags gifted them with free jute bags instead of reprimanding them for their indiscretion.
The government has made a provision to fine people using plastic bags but people are exempted from any punitive action on the day in deference to the Mahatma. Free distribution of jute bags was taken up by the city police as a tribute to the Father of the Nation.
“We will not fine people carrying plastic bags at least today,” said a senior Delhi Police officer.
"The patrolling officers will identify people carrying plastic bags and will replace these with jute bags," said the police official. He explained that the move would go a long way in creating awareness among the people about harmful effects of polythene on human health and environment.
The Centre’s ban on single-use plastic is in place. Under the ban anything below 50 microns is included in this category.
During his speech on Independence Day, Prime Minister Modi had said, "On October 2, let us pledge to make the country free of single-use plastic." He also urged startups to come up with ideas to recycle plastic in the country.
As per the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016, minimum thickness of plastic bags has increased from 40 microns to 50 microns. According to 2017-2018 annual report of Central Pollution Control Board, approximately 8 million tons of plastic products are used every year, generating around 25,940 tons of plastic waste per day in India.