Uttar Pradesh ban plastic bags in state

Uttar Pradesh government decided to ban the manufacture, import, purchase and storage of all kinds of plastic carry bags across the state, a month after Allahabad High Court's direction to prohibit its usage. In a meeting presided by Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, the state cabinet decided to ban plastic carry bags in view of its negative impact on people's health as well as environment, an official spokesman here said. Following the ban, no shopkeeper, wholesaler or retailer will be able to use, store or purchase plastic carry bags for eatable or non-eatable items, the spokesman added.

However, the ban will not be applicable on carry bags used for packaging purposes, the spokesman said, adding, chairman and members of the UP Pollution Control Board will ensure the implementation of these orders. Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister told newspersons, "We have banned polythene and its carry bags across the state. There was a court directive to make Uttar Pradesh environment- friendly. We are also looking at alternative materials that can be provided to people." A division bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice Yashwant Verma of the Allahabad High Court had on November 18 directed the state government to issue a notification enforcing complete ban on sale of polythene across