Ladakh imposes strict ban on single-use plastics

Excelsior Correspondent

LEH, June 19: In a significant step towards environmental conservation, the Union Territory of Ladakh has imposed a strict ban on identified single-use plastic (SUP) items, with stringent penalties for violators.

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved a comprehensive enforcement framework aimed at protecting Ladakh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem from the growing menace of plastic pollution and littering.

Under the new regulations, individuals, commercial establishments, hotels, eateries and institutions found using, selling, storing, distributing or transporting prohibited single-use plastic items will face an environmental penalty of Rs 10,000. Littering in public places will attract a fine of Rs 5,000. To strengthen implementation, authorities will also conduct random checks at Leh Airport and various entry points into Ladakh to prevent the inflow of banned plastic products.

The ban covers a wide range of identified SUP items, including plastic cutlery, cups, plates, straws, trays, wrapping films, thermocol decorations, plastic flags, stirrers and plastic banners below the prescribed thickness.

For effective enforcement, the LG has empowered several district and field-level officials to inspect premises, detect violations, issue challans and recover penalties. These officials include Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Tehsildars, Executive Magistrates, officers of the Ladakh Pollution Control Committee, Tourism Department officials, Panchayat and Municipal officers, Forest Department personnel, and members of the Environment Protection Force.

Authorities have also been authorized to use videography, photography, CCTV footage and other legally admissible electronic evidence to initiate action against violators.

Emphasizing the need for responsible tourism, Saxena urged residents and visitors alike to refrain from littering and damaging Ladakh’s pristine landscapes. He said environmental protection must go hand in hand with development as the region strives to emerge as a world-class tourist destination.

Known for its high-altitude wetlands, glaciers and unique biodiversity, Ladakh remains particularly vulnerable to plastic pollution.