Dehradun Administration Intensifies Crackdown on Single-Use Plastic
953 establishments inspected, 306 challaned; ₹1.14 lakh fine collected and over 306 kg plastic seized
Dehradun: The Dehradun district administration has intensified its enforcement drive against single-use plastic as part of its efforts to protect the environment and make the city cleaner and more sustainable. On the directions of District Magistrate Dr Ashish Chauhan, a comprehensive campaign is being conducted across all 100 wards under the Municipal Corporation area to curb the use, storage and distribution of banned plastic items.
To strengthen enforcement at the ground level, the administration has deployed 50 sector officers across the city. Their teams have so far conducted surprise inspections at 953 commercial establishments in different wards.
During the inspections, violations involving the use, storage or distribution of single-use plastic were detected at 403 establishments, following which action was taken as per the prescribed rules. Challans were issued to 306 establishments, while a total fine of ₹1.14 lakh has been collected so far.
More than 306 kg of banned plastic seized
The enforcement teams have also seized a significant quantity of banned plastic materials during the campaign. So far, 306.12 kg of single-use plastic has been confiscated and disposed of in accordance with the applicable procedures.
The administration said the objective of the campaign is not merely to collect fines, but to effectively curb the use of banned plastic and encourage businesses and citizens to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives.
Regular inspections and monitoring are being carried out in markets, commercial areas and other parts of the city to ensure compliance with the restrictions on single-use plastic.
Awareness drive alongside enforcement
Along with strict enforcement, the district administration is also focusing on public awareness. Street plays and other awareness activities are being organised in different areas to educate residents about the harmful impact of single-use plastic and encourage them to avoid its use.
Citizens are being urged to switch to eco-friendly alternatives such as cloth and jute bags and contribute to environmental protection.
The administration has emphasised that creating a clean and plastic-free Dehradun is a collective responsibility. Citizens, traders and commercial establishments have been urged to cooperate with the campaign, avoid banned plastic products and actively participate in efforts to protect the environment.
