Visakhapatnam:The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) Commissioner, Dr P. Sampath Kumar, announced a total ban on single-use plastics from January 1, 2025 to tackle environmental and health hazards. Public awareness programmes will promote sustainable alternatives.
The GVMC produces about 1,000 tonnes of waste daily, including 100 tonnes of plastic, with 50 tonnes entering the marine environment. Measures under the Plastic Waste Management Act 2016, such as banning thin plastic bags, have had limited impact due to weak enforcement.
Thirty ward volunteers equipped with uniforms and vehicles will monitor compliance and fine offenders. However, critics argue that large-scale wholesalers, including 153 units in GVMC limits, are overlooked, while street vendors face penalties. Recycling remains inadequate, with only 13 units processing 50–70 tonnes of plastic daily.
A pledge for a plastic-free city will be held on 7 December at RK Beach, led by Swachh Ambassador and actor R.P. Patnaik.
