Rs 1 lakh fine for using banned plastic

A bill to levy a fine of Rs 1 lakh on those using the 14 banned plastic items was tabled in the Assembly this morning. Single-use plastic was banned in the State from 1 January 2019. But many firms, and roadside vendors continue to use plastic carry bags. Raids continue to be conducted in Chennai. Nearly a month among several kgs of plastic bags were seized from Saravana Bhavan hotel, according to reports.

Many firms have come up with alternatives like cloth bags and hotels have switched quickly to other kinds of wrappers. Some hotels suggest the customer brings his own vessels to collect sambar and chutney.