Single-use plastic ban: Kohima allows ‘buffer time’ for stock clearance

KOHIMA — Dealers and suppliers of beverages and packaged drinking water below one litre in Kohima have been granted a “buffer time” to collect their stock from shops and outlets, allowing them to clear existing inventory before the single-use plastics (SUP) ban comes into “full” effect.

This decision was reached during an awareness programme and meeting on the SUP ban held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kohima on Wednesday, in an attempt to address the concerns and challenges raised by manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers regarding the implementation of the ban.

Earlier this month, the government of Nagaland had announced a complete ban on all single-use plastic carry bags, regardless of thickness, and plastic bottles for water and soft drinks below one litre, effective from August 1.

Violators will face penalties of INR 10,000 for the first offense, INR 20,000 for the second offense, and permit cancellation for subsequent offenses.

During the meeting, industry representatives requested a grace period to clear their existing stock from retailers, which acknowledged by Deputy Commissioner Kumar Ramnikant. While allowing time for existing inventory to be sold, the DC directed suppliers to cease billing for new stock of the banned items.

Pointing out that the plastic problem will be solved if one does not change habits, he urged everyone to discourage the use of plastics, starting from the individual level.

He admitted that previous government attempts to ban plastics had been unsuccessful due to waning public commitment over time. The DC highlighted the growing plastic waste problem and attributed it to the persistent cycle of demand and supply.

Administrator of Kohima Municipal Council (KMC), T Lanusenla Longkumer, said that the SUP ban would be enforced regardless of plastic thickness. This marks the third attempt to implement an SUP ban, with previous efforts in 2018 and 2021 disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, she said.

Longkumer shared that the KMC started waste segregation in 2023 and received varied response, highlighting the need for continued awareness and implementation efforts. She emphasised the importance of individual responsibility in waste segregation.

Acknowledging that creating awareness is only the first step, she said behavioural change, particularly adopting waste segregation practices, requires time and consistent effort from individuals.

Addressing the Lerie solid waste management facility, the administrator confirmed its continued operation and shared plans to transition it to a public-private partnership model.

Attendees, including ward leaders and representatives from various organisations, stressed the need to curb plastic imports and implement stricter measures for success of the ban while pledging their support towards the cause.

KMC Chairperson Neikhozo Suokhrie acknowledged the urgency of addressing the plastic problem and assured that the council would engage in further discussions and action on the matter after their seating.

Also read: ‘Sudden’ ban on plastics worries beverage distributors