By Tehelka Web Desk
The Union Territory administration of Ladakh has imposed a strict ban on the use, sale, storage and distribution of identified single-use plastic items, with violators facing environmental penalties of up to Rs 10,000.
The decision was approved by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena as part of efforts to protect Ladakh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem from increasing plastic pollution and littering, particularly around tourist destinations.
Under the new regulations, individuals, commercial establishments, hotels and eateries found violating the ban on single-use plastics will be fined Rs 10,000. Littering in public places will attract a penalty of Rs 5,000.
The ban covers a range of items, including plastic cutlery, cups, plates, straws, trays, wrapping films, thermocol decorations, plastic flags, stirrers and plastic banners below the prescribed thickness.
Authorities will also conduct random checks at Leh Airport and other entry points into Ladakh to prevent the inflow of prohibited plastic items.
To strengthen enforcement, the administration has authorised several district and field-level officials to inspect premises, issue challans and recover penalties. The framework also allows the use of CCTV footage, photographs, videography and other electronic evidence to identify violators.
Officials said the measure aims to promote responsible tourism and preserve Ladakh’s pristine landscapes, glaciers, wetlands and biodiversity from the harmful effects of plastic waste.
The Lieutenant Governor urged residents and tourists to avoid littering and support efforts to keep the region clean and environmentally sustainable.
