Berhampur: A resolution to ban the use of polythene bags by the district administration was met with an outpouring of support in Berhampur here. The resolution has led to a new policy – ‘no bag no grocery’ that is strictly being followed by traders and shopkeepers.
Shopkeepers and traders have refused to sell groceries and other items if customers arrive at shops without a bag. Many vendors also began rejecting polythene bags and have switched over to paper bags. The decline in the use of polythene has had a major benefit on paper bags with a price of `2-3 per bag.
Meanwhile, the administration also implemented several awareness programmes. Officials raided vending zones and shops at various locations and seized polythene bags from the traders.
“Now, most customers are coming to purchase vegetables with their own bags,” said a trader. The traders were also strictly warned against violating the norms and assisted the administration in the noble step. They advised customers to use cotton bags instead of polythene bags and water sachets.
Locals welcomed the move by the district administration to make it mandatory to carry bags with them while going for shopping. Interestingly, many hotels advised customers to carry tiffin to get food and breakfast. Instead of using polythene, many vendors provided paper sachets to customers.
Hotels and restaurants reflowed back to the past practices and began using ‘khali’ while serving food to customers. It may be noted here that Ganjam district collector Prem Chandra Chaudhary passed a resolution to completely ban polythene bags in the district from the beginning of New Year.
“I’m impressed with the administration’s move and I will do my part to bring an end to polythene use. I have stopped giving breakfast in polythene bags and have begun advising customers to bring bags with them,” said Prakash Chandra Sabat, a breakfast vendor.
“It is a very important step taken by the administration. Ban on water pouches, milk, oil packets also should be implemented,” said Ganesh Padhi, a customer.
Neelanchal Sahu, a vegetable vendor, said, “All are coming with bags now. A customer without a bag is bound to buy a new bag and take vegetables. The practice must be followed by everybody.” PNN
