Navi Mumbai– A staggering 128 kilograms of banned plastic, alongside a hefty ₹2.2 lakhs in fines, have been hauled in by Navi Mumbai authorities in a relentless crackdown aimed at choking out single-use plastic.
The city’s aggressive enforcement drive, fueled by growing concerns over environmental damage, has seen businesses across the region facing swift and decisive action.
The city’s flying squads, operating under the directive of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde, have been conducting targeted inspections, leaving no room for violators.
In the first five days of March alone, shops in Koparkhairane, Rabale, and Gothivali found themselves on the receiving end of hefty penalties, with 5.50 kilograms of plastic bags and other banned materials confiscated.
“We are sending a clear message: plastic pollution will not be tolerated in Navi Mumbai,” stated a senior NMMC official. “These seizures and fines demonstrate our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our environment for future generations.”
The recent surge in enforcement builds upon a successful February, during which authorities seized 123.100 kilograms of plastic and collected ₹2 lakhs in fines. The NMMC’s multi-pronged approach involves not only enforcement but also widespread public awareness campaigns, urging citizens to embrace sustainable alternatives like cloth and paper bags.
Dr. Shinde’s leadership has been instrumental in driving this initiative, with the municipal headquarters itself setting a precedent by replacing plastic water bottles with reusable glass and steel alternatives.
“The responsibility lies with every one of us,” the official emphasized. “We implore residents and businesses to join hands in this crucial endeavor, to eliminate plastic from our daily lives and build a cleaner, greener Navi Mumbai.” The city’s unwavering stance signals a determined push towards a plastic-free future, with no signs of relenting.
