Bandipora:Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib on Saturday ordered a complete ban on Single Use Plastic (SUP) items within the premises of Mini Secretariat Bandipora, declaring it a Plastic-Free Zone.
According to the order, the use of polythene carry bags, disposable cutlery including cups, plates and straws, and other prohibited plastic items has been strictly banned in the Secretariat premises.
“All officers, officials, visitors and canteen operators operating within the Mini Secretariat shall immediately cease the use of SUP and instead adopt eco-friendly and reusable alternatives like cloth bags, steel, metal or glass utensils,” the order reads.
The DC has cautioned that any violation of the directive will invite punitive action under the Plastic Waste Management Rules and other relevant laws, including seizure of banned material and penalties.
The Estates Officer, Sanitation Wing of Municipal Council Bandipora, along with the Incharge Security of the Mini Secretariat, has been tasked with ensuring strict implementation and monitoring of the order.
The order further states that a kiosk will be set up at the Secretariat entry point for one month to provide alternatives to SUP and assist visitors and officials in switching to eco-friendly practices.