DIMAPUR — In a bid to scrub the city of illegal polythene, the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) has announced a renewed crackdown on the manufacture, sale, storage and use of banned single-use plastic (SUP) items.

In a press release issued on Friday, the DMC reiterated that the prohibition on single-use plastic, notified on September 13, 2024, remains in force in accordance with directives issued by the government of Nagaland.

The civic body stated that despite repeated notifications and awareness campaigns, several business establishments and individuals continue to manufacture, stock, distribute, sell and use prohibited SUP products in violation of government orders.

It, therefore, directed all business establishments, commercial institutions, traders, dealers, shopkeepers, vendors and the general public to strictly comply with the ban and switch to environmentally friendly alternatives such as biodegradable and reusable carry bags.

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The DMC informed that inspection and enforcement drives will be intensified throughout its jurisdiction to ensure compliance.

Any individual, shop, establishment or institution found violating the ban will be liable for penal action, including seizure of prohibited materials and the imposition of penalties under the relevant laws, rules and government notifications.

Appealing for public cooperation, the municipal council urged citizens, market associations, ward authorities and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at making Dimapur a cleaner, greener and environmentally sustainable city.

The order comes into immediate effect.