The traders have demanded the ban to be enforced only on plastic bags below 50 microns pointing out that the alternatives — cloth bags and paper bags — are not readily available. “Though many traders have already stocked plastic bags for six months, for most traders it is difficult to completely comply with the ban within 15 days. The merchants in Camp area have given a memorandum to the PCB CEO requesting a ban only on polythene bags below 50 microns,” said Anand Kochar, chairman, Pune Camp Merchants Association.

The spin-off effect is already evident as shops across the city have stopped providing plastic bags and at the same time, are unable to provide paper bags.

“Though some voluntary organistaions are supplying paper bags, we still face scarcity. Also, it is not economical for us to give paper bags to customers as they are expensive,” said Aravind Mane, a retail shop owner.

However, big retail chains are getting innovative to ensure that the complete ban on plastic does not translate into business loss for them. “We have introduced points system as an incentive to customers who get their own cloth bag to shop. The system is working for us as many customers are bringing their own bags,” said a retail chain employee.

Meanwhile, the PCB has intensified its drive by supplying pamphlets to all shops and making public announcements about the ban. PCB CEO D K Malik said the board is reaching out to people to see that the ban is complete.

“We have started issuing pamphlets to traders in the PCB jurisdiction and are trying to spread awareness among people. From March 15, we will start imposing fines on violators,” said Malik.