TAWANG, 7 Jul: Town Magistrate Nawang Thutan, along with engineer Phurpa Lamu and officials from the Urban Affairs Department carried out a surprise inspection at Nehru Market, New Market, and the Medical Colony here on Tuesday to enforce the ban on single-use plastic and plastic drinking water bottles below two litres capacity.

During the drive, shops and commercial establishments were inspected to verify compliance with the district administration’s order prohibiting the sale, storage, and use of banned plastic items.

Shopkeepers and other stakeholders were sensitised to the adverse environmental impact of single-use plastic, particularly in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, and were urged to adopt sustainable alternatives.

Officials reiterated that strict compliance with the ban is mandatory, and cautioned that violations will invite action under the relevant rules and regulations.

The inspection also served as an awareness initiative, encouraging traders and citizens to actively support the district’s mission of reducing plastic pollution.

The district administration reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the environment, and announced that such surprise inspections will continue across the district to ensure effective implementation of the ban. Citizens, traders, and visitors have been advised to cooperate by avoiding single-use plastic and choosing eco-friendly alternatives. (DIPRO)