Now, plastic ban to include single use crockery

LUCKNOW: A month after implementing a ban on plastic bags and cups in the state, authorities are set to broaden the ban to singleuse plastic and styrofoam crockery from Wednesday.

“In the first phase, we banned the use of plastic bags and cups. As per the plan, the ban will extend to more items from August 15,” said Ram Karan, regional officer of UP Pollution Control Board (UPPCB).

“According to the notification the ban will include cups, glasses, spoons and other crockery made of plastic or styrofoam,” he added. The UPPCB have already issued letters to authorities concerned to implement the ban. According to officials, teams of UPPCB, along with municipal officials and police, would inspect various places across the city to implement the ban.

Locals have welcomed the ban. “Plastic has turned into a menace which is affecting our environment. We all must encourage the ban,” said Kriti Singh of Gomti Nagar.Meanwhile, people related to the plastic industry have criticised the ban and asked for some more time. Representatives of thermoforming association have moved a petition in the Lucknow bench of Allahabad high court against the notification.

“We have contested in court that the state government cannot bring in ordinance and issue notification in this matter,” said Kundan Mishra, counsellor for the thermoforming association.

The petition was heard in the court on Tuesday. The judge has asked the state counsel to present their side on August 20.