Ladakh, June 19: The ban on single-use plastic has been further tightened in Ladakh to protect the environment, and it has been decided to impose a hefty fine on violators. The administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has issued an important order to protect the sensitive Himalayan ecosystem. The use of all types of identified single-use plastic items has been completely banned, and strict guidelines have been issued to impose a hefty fine of up to Rs 10,000 on violators.
Ladakh is a very sensitive eco-zone. The number of tourists visiting it has increased significantly in recent years, and the plastic bottles, carry bags and snack packets lying everywhere have become fatal to the natural beauty and biodiversity there. In this context, this crucial order has been issued.
According to the new order, the production, sale, storage and use of the following items are completely prohibited. Plastic carry bags, plastic spoons, cups and plates, ear-buds and balloons with plastic sticks, plastic films used to seal around cigarette packets and boxes of sweets, plastic or PVC banners less than 100 microns thick are banned.
Strict legal action will be taken against those who violate the new rules. Tourists and locals who litter in public places, river banks and tourist spots will be fined on the spot. Hotels, restaurants and shopkeepers who sell or use banned plastic items have been warned of a hefty fine and cancellation of their licenses. The fine amount will be doubled for repeat violators.
Tourists coming to Ladakh have been advised not to bring any kind of single-use plastic items with them. Checks have been intensified at check posts and the use of bamboo or cloth bags and reusable water bottles is being encouraged as an alternative. The local administration has appealed to the public and tourists to cooperate fully in this decision to save the snowy hills and clean environment of Ladakh for the next generation.
Ladakh is a famous tourist destination of global importance, visited by millions of tourists every year. But due to plastic waste, the rivers, valleys and habitats of rare wildlife are being polluted here. Officials said that this drastic measure is necessary to save the natural beauty and clean air.
Tourists traveling to Ladakh have been requested not to bring any kind of single-use plastic or plastic water bottles with them. Checks have been intensified at the check posts and they have been asked to use cloth bags and reusable steel or copper bottles inste