Measures being taken to curb use of polythene bags: J-K Min

Jammu and Kashmir Minister Choudhary Lal Singh today said that steps were being taken to curb the use of polythene bags that pose a serious threat to the environment and the wildlife of the state.
The Forest and Environment Minister said that the state government had put a blanket ban on manufacturing of below 50 micron polythene bags in Jammu and Kashmir.
He said that as per the new guidelines, the manufacturers have to print their name and address on the bags, failing which strict action would be taken against them.
"The use of polythene and its unscientific disposal has posed serious threat to the environment as it takes very long time to degrade," the minister said.

"The government is taking all possible measures to prevent pollution of the state's environment and ecology," Singh said at a public meeting here, adding that it would be ensured that drains are not choked by plastic bags.
The minister said that departments concerned have been directed to successfully implement the guidelines of the government.
He asked the State Pollution Control Board to follow the guidelines and take stern action against the defaulters.