Tibetans to Join Drive on Polythene Ban in Dharamsala

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Tibet.net
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Say no to polythene products

Dharamshala: As part of the complete ban on the polythene bags imposed by the state government on 2 October this year, Tibetans in Dharamsala will join local Indians to dispose of non-biodegradable pollutants from their localities on 21 December.

The Himachal Pradesh government will launch a week-long campaign from 21 December to make the state plastic-free by removing all polythene bags from residential areas and hillsides, the chief minister said Tuesday.

The state government imposed a total ban on the production, storage, use, sale and distribution of all types of polythene bags made of non-biodegradable materials. The use of paper and jute bags is being encouraged.

The Act has provision for hefty penalty on the violators including citizens, tourists, traders and commercial establishments ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000. Officials from state pollution control board, police and other departments have been empowered to impose fine on the spot on violators.

Chief Minister Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal, who is in Dharamsala for Vidhan Sabha session, will also participate in the polythene disposal movement.

All departments and offices of the Central Tibetan Administration will take part in the cleanliness campaign under the supervision of health department. Acting health secretary Sonam Choephel Shosur made the announcement this afternoon.

The cleanliness drive in and around Gangchen Kyishong, the headquarter of the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamsala, will take place on Sunday. On Monday morning, garbage trucks will carry the waste for disposal by the district public works department.

Similarly, other Tibetans residing in Dharamsala, will join the action day under the supervision of Tibetan Settlement Office based in Mcleod Ganj.

The health department has appealed for maximum participation of Tibetans in the conservation and promotion of healthy environment in the state.