Visakhapatnam, 23 May 2023: The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) implemented a comprehensive ban on single-use plastic in 2022, which was initially adhered to strictly for several months. However, recent observations indicate a decline in compliance with the ban.
Single-use plastic bags, particularly non-woven bags, have gradually made a resurgence in almost all shops across the city. Numerous individuals who were previously committed to following the plastic ban have now opted for the convenience of plastic bags.
The GVMC had launched a full-fledged campaign to enforce the ban on single-use plastic. Stringent penalties were imposed on sellers of such plastic products for an extended period. Shopkeepers used to encourage customers to bring their own cloth or jute bags instead of relying on carry bags provided by the stores.
Moreover, the GVMC had designated various tourist spots as plastic-free zones, aiming to preserve their pristine beauty. These locations included the coconut grove area, a park for children with all abilities, VMRDA park, smart city park, Thotlakonda, Kailasagiri, and Tenneti park.
Notably, the GVMC had also achieved success in maintaining a plastic-free environment during the annual Simhachalam temple fete, known as Giri Pradakshina, which took place in July 2022. However, in recent months, shops have resumed the practice of providing plastic carry bags to their customers.
The decline in adherence to the ban on single-use plastic is a cause for concern as it undermines the efforts made by the GVMC to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices in Visakhapatnam. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the municipal corporation, shop owners, and citizens, to recommit themselves to the cause and actively participate in creating a plastic-free environment for the well-being of the city and its residents.