The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has intensified its efforts to combat plastic pollution by directing all local bodies in the state to ramp up action against single-use plastic. Siddhesh Kadam, recently appointed as the chairman of MPCB, issued a directive on March 12, urging local authorities to establish dedicated task forces to inspect various establishments and take strict measures against offenders.
Son of former environment minister Ramdas Kadam, Siddhesh Kadam brings a legacy of environmental advocacy to his role, having been instrumental in the implementation of the plastic ban initiated by his father. In his capacity as MPCB chairman, Kadam aims to reinvigorate efforts to tackle plastic pollution by ensuring robust enforcement of regulations and fostering public awareness.
The directive underscores the MPCB’s commitment to addressing the pervasive issue of single-use plastic, emphasizing the need for sustained action to curb its production, sale, and application. Local bodies, including municipal corporations such as Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, have been tasked with forming specialized task forces to conduct inspections and enforce penalties on violators.
Ravindra Andhale, MPCB’s regional officer, expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to curb plastic waste in urban centers like Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. He emphasized the importance of stringent enforcement measures to deter the proliferation of single-use plastic products and promote sustainable waste management practices.
The Plastic Waste Management Rules, implemented by the state government in 2016, laid the groundwork for restrictions on the production, use, and distribution of various plastic items. Despite these regulatory measures, loopholes and lax enforcement have allowed the prevalence of single-use plastic to persist, prompting the need for renewed action.
In recent years, the MPCB has observed a decline in enforcement activities against single-use plastic, necessitating a proactive response to reignite efforts in this critical area of environmental conservation. The directive issued by Chairman Siddhesh Kadam signals a renewed commitment to combatting plastic pollution and fostering a greener, more sustainable future for Maharashtra.
