[ Prem Chetry ]

DIRANG, 10 Jul: In an effort to protect the environment, the Dirang administration announced a ban on the sale of 500 ml plastic water bottles in Dirang subdivision of West Kameng district on Friday.

Appealing to the public and shopkeepers for their cooperation, Dirang ADC Choiki Dondup said that it was decided during the consultative meeting to prohibit the sale of 500 ml plastic water bottles across the subdivision from 1 August.

“Earlier, according to our survey, the use of single-use plastic was around 2,000 kg per month, which was alarming. We subsequently banned single-use plastics, especially polythene bags, which led to a tremendous reduction in plastic waste. This not only helped preserve the beauty of our valley but also restored its natural charm,” he said.

The ADC expressed gratitude to local MLA Phurpa Tsering, PRI members, and the public for their support in the campaign against plastic pollution.

He further appealed to the public to extend their full cooperation in making Dirang subdivision free from plastic pollution. He also cautioned shopkeepers that surprise inspections would be conducted from time to time to ensure strict implementation of the order. Shopkeepers have been asked to clear their existing stock of 500 ml plastic water bottles before the ban comes into effect.

The ban will be enforced in all localities under the subdivision’s jurisdiction, which encompasses Bomdila Pass to Sela Pass, including Dirang Market, Jyoti Nagar, Dirang Dzong, Ramacamp Market, and Padma.

The meeting was attended by ZPMs from Lish and Dirang blocks, senior community leaders, bazaar secretaries of Dirang and Ramacamp, heads of departments, and representatives from the Indian Army, the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF), and paramilitary forces.