Discarded polythene bags lying in the open areas are not only an eyesore, but also cause blockages in sewerage lines.

The traders, however, claim that only good quality polybags are being manufactured and used in the city.

Residents are, meanwhile, confused regarding the type of polythene bags that have been banned. According to the norms, no manufacturer in Chandigarh can produce polythene bags of less than 30 microns. The administration is currently planning to ensure the usage of polythene bags of 50 microns. However, manufacturers claim that even the 50-micron poly bags will have an adverse impact on the environment.

The UT Administration has been trying to impose a ban on the use of polythene bags, but the proposal has failed to take off due to stiff opposition from traders and industrialists.

What the by-laws say

In Chandigarh, the manufacture can produce only the 30 microns polythene bags of size 8 x 12 inch. The bags should be made of virgin plastic. However, polythene bags of even 10 microns are being used in the city.

Previous meetings have failed to ensure ban

Last year, a meeting of senior officials from UT Administration and Municipal Corporation Chandigarh was held. The MC had informed then Municipal Commissioner P S Aujla about the decision to ban polythene bags in the city. The meeting was also attended by a host of senior officials including the Deputy Commissioner, Special Secretary Local Government, Chief Executive Officer Chandigarh Housing Board, UT Chief Engineer, UT Chief Architect, Senior Town Planner and SP Traffic etc.

The officials also decided that Municipal Commissioner will issue directions to the Medical Officer Health (MOH) and his staff to implement the by-laws.

In October 2006, the UT Administration had decided not to impose a blanket ban on the use of polythene bags in Chandigarh after receiving a number of’ representations and objections from dealers, manufactures, Chandigarh Plastic Manufacturers and many others.

Why polythene bags of less than 30 microns are being used?

The difference in the rates of 30 microns and 10 microns poly bags is a major factor in encouraging small traders to use the polythene bags of less than 30 microns. While the cost of a kg polythene bags of 30 microns is Rs 400, 10 micron bags are available for Rs 100. Traders feel that that the 50 micron rule may encourage the use of cheaper polythene bags from other states.

The plastic industry

Chandigarh has nearly 45 industries manufacturing polythene bags, employing nearly 1400 people. A complete ban on poly bags will result in the closure of these units, forcing the employees to look for other jobs.

‘Review decision’

Industry sources contend that instead of imposing a complete ban on the use of polythene, the administration should ensure that poor quality polytehene is not used. They claim that polythene less than 30 microns is supplied by traders from other states.

MPS Chawla, president of Chandigarh Industrial Association, said that dustbins must be provided in all Sectors and market places. He demanded proper segregation of garbage and demanded a ban on the supply of polythene bags of less microns.

What traders say

Charanjiv Singh, president of Chandigarh Beopar Mandal said that a meeting was held with UT Adviser and Deputy Commissioner on the issue. He said proper management of garbage would solve the problem. He said that the administration should take steps to stop the supply of poor quality polythene from other states.

Officialspeak