SDM Durbuk leads anti-plastic drive across market, warns of strict penalties

LEH: In an effort to curb plastic pollution and safeguard the fragile Himalayan ecology of the Changthang region, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Durbuk, on Monday led a comprehensive awareness and sensitization campaign against the use of single-use plastics and open littering in Durbuk market.

The drive focused on informing traders, residents and other stakeholders about the environmental consequences of non-biodegradable plastic waste and the legal provisions governing its prohibition under the newly implemented Union Territory framework.

During the campaign, the SDM reiterated that the use, sale, storage, stocking, distribution and supply of identified single-use plastic (SUP) items have been prohibited. The banned items include plastic cutlery, plates, cups, straws, trays, wrapping films and low-thickness plastic banners.

The administration also issued a clear warning that commercial establishments and individuals found violating the SUP ban would face an environmental penalty of ₹10,000. Public littering, meanwhile, will attract an on-the-spot fine of ₹5,000 under the prevailing regulations.

Addressing members of the market association and local residents, the SDM underscored the need for collective action to preserve the region’s ecological balance. Stressing that tourism growth and development must remain aligned with environmental responsibility, the officer called upon all stakeholders to actively support efforts aimed at reducing plastic waste.

Shopkeepers were directed to immediately remove any remaining stocks of prohibited plastic products and install visible dustbins outside their establishments. They were also instructed to ensure that commercial waste is not dumped in open spaces, roadside drains or local water channels.

The awareness drive forms part of the administration’s broader efforts to strengthen environmental stewardship in the ecologically sensitive Changthang belt, which has witnessed growing concerns over waste management amid increasing economic and tourism activity.

Representatives of the market community assured the administration of their full cooperation and pledged support in transforming Durbuk into a plastic-free zone.