Though the State Government has planned to strictly enforce polythene ban fromAugust 1, he public in Dehradun still have mixed views on the prohibition.

While some support the ban, others do not support a complete ban on polythene. Ekta from Premnagar says, “Polythene bags should not be banned completely. Their use should be regulated but not banned. Paper bags are not reusable and not the best option for polythene.”

Another local resident Shyam Prajapati also opined that though the use of polythene should be reduced, it should not be completely banned. He said, “We do not have enough options to replace polythene. Its use should be regulated because banning is not a practial solution.”

On the other hand, there are citizens who are happy about the polythene ban. Housewife Chandra from Adhoiwala area said, “It is a good initiative by Government. I always try to avoid the use of plastics in my day to day life. Nothing can be changed overnight but everyone has to be serious about the effects of the usage of polythene.”

Geeta Panu, a student from Karnpur said, “There should be a proper transition taking place before banning plastic bags. Public awareness should be spread about the alternatives to polythene bags which will make people opt for such products over polythene bags. Paper bags should not be the only option.”

Vegetable vendor Durga opined, “The polythene ban is good if the customers too take it seriously. Most of the time people don’t bring their carry bags and even if some people carry bags, they still demand vegetables in polythene bags. If we refuse then they will buy vegetables from someone else and generally these are the people who appear educated. We see dumps of plastic bottles and bags at so many places which disgust us. I hope that the ban will make people aware as well as responsible.”

Police to enforce helmet for pillion riders

As per the High Court orders, the State authorities will start enforcing the wearing of helmet by those riding pillion on two-wheelers. The enforcement of this regulation is slated to be started from August 10.

The rule is applicable to the people of all age group except children who are less than five years of age, according to the Traffic directorate deputy inspector general Kewal Khurana.

It will be recalled that earlier in June this year, taking cognisance of rampant violations of traffic regulations, the High Court of Uttarakhand had directed that those caught using mobile phone while operating a vehicle should have their driving license cancelled. Further, the high court had also directed the state government to strictly enforce the Motor Vehicles Act section 128 (safety measures for drivers and pillion riders) to ensure only one pillion rider and section 129 (wearing of protective headgear).

According to official sources, the police in charge of every district has been issued instructions to strictly enforce the law as per the court orders. Traffic police, local police and city patrol unit will also conduct awareness programmes to raise awareness on the necessity of helmet for pillion riders.