An awareness program cum meeting on Single Use of Plastic (SUP) organised by the Kohima Municipal Council was held on July 31 at DC office Conference hall, Kohima.
The meeting’was attended by Kohima village Council, AWO, all 19 ward Chairman, CCI,Kohima hotels and Restaurant unions, AYO, KVYO, KVSU, Youth organisation in all wards and media.
Deputy Commissioner of Nagaland, Kumar Ramnikant, IAS updated on the notification by the Urban Development department NO.UDD/7-GEN/07-PWM/2018 (PI-1) dated 10 July which stated that In pursuance to the Special Task Force(STF) on single use plastics meeling held on 20.06.2024 and with a view to eradicate the serious environmenlal and ecological challenges posed by rampant use of single-use plastics and single use plastic bottles in the State, the Governor of Nagaland will impose complete ban on the following items from the State of Nagaland with effect from 01.08.2024.All Single-Use Plastics (SUPs) carry bags irrespective of microns and All single use Plastic bottles for water and soft drinks below 1 (One) litre.
The letter also highlights that The District Administration/District Task Force (DTF)/Local Bodies shall levy penalties against the defaulting business establishments in their respective jurisdiction, A penalty of Rs.10,000/- for first offence, Rs. 20,000/- for second offence shall be realized from the defaulters and for subsequent offence a permit cancellation shall be imposed and so on.
He said Regarding this matter, a meeting was convened earlier where it was decided that in Kohima town, two teams will conduct simultaneous checks after July 31 as stated in the news platforms . He also highlighted the challenge of plastic demand and the ongoing awareness efforts, emphasizing the importance of sustained awareness to combat the issue. He expressed hope for everyone to embrace the idea of reducing plastic usage. Additionally, he encouraged individuals to become agents of change by being mindful of their plastic use and discouraging its use.
Neikhozo Suokhrie, Chairperson of Kohima Municipal Council, assured full support to assist the government in spreading the message through awareness campaign and various other mediums.
KMC Administrator Lanusenla Longkumer Peseyie announced the forthcoming ban on all types of single-use plastic, including plastic bottles under 1 liter. Acknowledging previous unsuccessful implementations, Peseyie noted the importance of effective implementation alongside ongoing awareness campaigns in schools and community meetings. Exploring Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach to address recycling challenges was also highlighted.
Stressing the need for self-awareness in following through with awareness initiatives, the KMC plans to distribute reminders by giving pamphlets and leaflets in all shops. Highlighting the existing operational recycling plant in Lerie and two in-house recycling facilities, and ongoing PPP initiative to enhance recycling efforts, Peseyie said, “The current recycling capacity stands at 23 metric tons per day.” To successfully address the issue, the KMC administrator urged for concerted effort.
While recognizing the use of compostable bags, Peseyie reminded that not all compostable bags are biodegradable. The administration currently sanctions bags approved by NCPB but is considering additional checks due to specific concerns, she informed, further encouraging the use of carry bags and paper bags crafted by local Naga entrepreneurs.
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The Midland Panchayat Representative also drew attention to the need to establish a mechanism to monitor and restrict plastic imports.
Meanwhile, the Sokhriezie Market Committee highlighted the challenge of entirely avoiding plastic and proposed a system for the collection of used plastic with a monetary incentive. Emphasizing the need for strict enforcement to ensure the success of this initiative, the Committee advocated for stringent actions against offenders. Recommendations on alternative arrangements for fish sellers dealing with fresh live fishes were also suggested.
With Nagaland being a consumer state heavily reliant on external supplies, a member of the Kohima Village Council drew attention to the difficulty in halting outside stock completely. The importance of addressing plastic accumulation, recycling, and reuse alongside implementing a complete plastic ban was also stressed.
The KVC representative also pointed out the widespread issue of water and alcohol bottles contributing to environmental pollution, questioning the government’s stance on the influx of plastic bottles, particularly through liquor bottles under the NLTP. The Excise Department’s failure in keeping a check of the intense flow of alcohol in the state was emphasized where appeal was made to the government to prioritize the collection and proper disposal of these plastic items.
Stressing the need for a comprehensive approach, the member suggested that the government must also present viable alternatives while banning SUP. Expressing support for the government’s efforts, he urged them to proactively consider and implement suitable alternatives.
The meeting ended with Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, Kumar Ramnikant, IAS, announcing that regular awareness meetings will continue. The DC also granted a buffer period for dealers to stop and recollect bottles under 1 liter, and urged everyone to discourage plastic use and support the avoidance of single-use plastic.
