City to have new norms for plastic bag usage

SURAT: Don't be surprised if some months later the grocer also bills you for the plastic bag he used to supply free of charge. It could vary from 50 paise for a small one to Rs 5 for a carry bag. The bag though will be thicker and more durable.
According to the new norms of plastic usage, all types of plastic carry bag manufacturers will have to get themselves registered with Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB).They will have to print the name of the manufacturer on every bag. Moreover, local civic authorities will fix the rates of these plastic bags.
At present, the minimum thickness prescribed is 20 microns, but the new usage norms have raised it to 40 microns.
Dr Hemant Desai, chief health officer of Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC), said, "The new norms entrust the civic body with the responsibility of usage, storage and disposal. We have also been asked to fix the rates for all types of plastic bags." He added, "The new norms have also banned any type of plastic use in packing material for pan masala, gutkha and tobacco products."
It may not be much difficult for the plastic carry bags used for bigger items because in non-perishable goods generally plastic bags used are much thicker and more durable but the problems will arise for plastic bags used for carry of small and perishable items.
S Aparna, Municipal Commissioner said, "We have initiated the process of fixing the rates of plastic carry bags." Desai said, "Once they are ready we will get it approved by the SMC body in accordance with the municipal bylaws and implement it." It will take a few months before this whole new set of norms will actually be implemented in the city.
A few days ago, the civic body has received notification to this effect. Civic bodies of cities like Jaipur and Mussoorie have already implemented a full ban on plastic usage.