Plastic ban: Deadline for plastic buyback mechanism in Maharashtra extended

As per the notification issued by the Department on March 23, the ban is on the manufacture, usage, transport, distribution, wholesale and retail sale and storage, import of plastic bags with handle and without handle and single-use disposable dishes, cups, plates, glasses, forks, bowls, containers, plastic packaging to wrap or store products, and packaging of food items and food grain material. Besides, it has banned the use of plastic and thermocol for decoration purposes.

However, senior officials in the Department said there is a lot of confusion about use of plastic for various items at the manufacturing level. “We have given exemption for using plastic packaging at the manufacturing stage. But in many cases such as pulses, grocery or masala, materials are bought in bulk and then packaged in small quantities by retailers or traders. The consumers won’t buy such items in bulk but in small quantities. The confusion is whether this packaging is considered primary or secondary. Hence, we need to relook at it carefully so as to not inconvenience people,” said an official requesting anonymity.

The official further said that the issue may affect small traders or retailers. “So, we may need to give further clarity on use of plastic for packaging and may allow packaging by retailers or traders as well. We may ensure that no plastic other than plastic used for packaging is used. Otherwise, it will be difficult for people to sell their items and conduct their business,” explained the official.