Bomdila, Jul 15: In a major step towards environmental conservation, the West Kameng district administration has prohibited the manufacture, import, stocking, transportation, distribution, sale and use of single-use plastics (SUP) and plastic drinking water bottles with a capacity of less than two litres across the district.
The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Magistrate Dr Dilip Kumar, cites the growing threat of plastic pollution to rivers, forests, tourist destinations and other ecologically sensitive areas.
According to the order, indiscriminate use and improper disposal of plastic waste have contributed to environmental degradation, blocked natural drainage systems, increased the risk of floods and landslides, and posed serious threats to biodiversity and public health.
Plastic carry bags below 120 microns and other prohibited single-use plastic items will continue to remain banned under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, as amended. The administration has now extended the prohibition to include plastic drinking water bottles below two litres.
To facilitate a smooth transition, manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers have been given a one-time 30-day period to dispose of existing stocks. However, no fresh manufacture, procurement or transportation of such bottles into the district will be permitted during this period. The ban will be enforced strictly after the transition period ends.
The order directs all government departments, educational institutions, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, banks, homestays, commercial establishments and event organisers to adopt sustainable alternatives such as water dispensers, purified water systems, reusable containers, glass bottles and steel bottles.
Enforcement will be carried out by Additional Deputy Commissioners, Executive Magistrates, Town Magistrates, Police, the Executive Engineer (DUDA) and Gram Panchayat authorities through regular inspections and surprise checks.
Violators will face action under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, the Arunachal Pradesh Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Bye-laws, 2023, and other applicable laws.
The order comes into immediate effect, while the ban on plastic drinking water bottles below two litres will become fully enforceable after the completion of the 30-day transition period.