Banning the use of plastic bags has not been as effective as the amount of zeal with which awareness programmes has been carried out. From following the Supreme Court guidelines to campaigning against the use of the deadly non-biodegradable substance, the administration has tried to deter people from using it in every possible way. But, the outcome seems far from expected.
Most of the vegetable and fruit vendors were found selling vegetables in plastic bags. A fruit vendor at Ratu Road, Amit Kumar said, “Customers always demand for plastic bags. If I do not keep my stock ready, they will not come to my shop and sale will be affected.” “Administration only makes policy but no one come to verify the ban. On Monday jute bags was also distributed despite customers demand for poly bags and if bags are not provided then they do not buy, we are compelled to provide them plastic bags”, said Raman Kumar, a vegetable vendor.
It is to be noted common people are reluctant on the uses of plastic bags. Raju Singh a buyer said, “Replacing jute bags or cotton bags instead of plastic bags will not easily as we are accustomed of using it.” “laws are made to be broken, from childhood we are used to with poly bags now how can we change it instantly. We forget to carry bags from our home as we are not familiar with this practice,” said Manoj Khanna a buyer at one of the vegetable shop.
Reema Ojha, a teacher in a Government school said, “While returning from my workplace I usually buy vegetable for my home, in this situation how will I carry a bag along with me so for me asking for plastic bag is justified.” Ranchi Sadar SDO, Amit Kumar said, “Now we are not taking any step on verifying ban. Right now our focus is on spreading awareness among the people about harmful effects of plastic bags. Once, we are done with awareness campaign then we will switch into controlling measures.”
“1.5 lakhs of paper and jute bags will be distributed to the vendors so that they can curb the use of polythene bags,” said Shailendra Kumar lal, Deputy Chief Executor Officer of Ranchi Municipal Corporation.