The issue of single-use plastics in Mumbai has come into the spotlight once again following the recent press conference held by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). During the event, MPCB reiterated the ongoing ban on single-use plastics, initially enforced in 2018, and outlined further measures directed to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

MPCB Chairman Siddhesh Kadam emphasised that the ban will remain in place, with strict enforcement efforts led by BMC in collaboration with Mumbai Police. The aim is to curb the persistent issue of single-use plastic usage across the city.

Key points highlighted by MPCB during the press conference include:

• Despite the ban, single-use plastics continue to be widely used in Mumbai, especially in restaurants and by hawkers.

• While the production of these plastics has largely ceased in Maharashtra, they are still being imported from neighbouring states.

• Strict action will be taken against violators, with no leniency towards restaurants and hawkers who continue to flout the ban.

• Fines for producers, stockists, suppliers and sellers of single-use plastics will range from ₹5,000 for the first offence, ₹10,000 for the second offence and up to ₹25,000 and/or imprisonment for three months for repeated offences.

• Additionally, BMC will implement improved waste segregation and recycling initiatives to better manage plastic disposal.