Michael Karmacharya of Pokhara Chapter of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI) said that the decision is worthless as long as we don´t have alternatives for plastic. He suggested that the municipality first explore alternatives and only then implement the decision. [break]
“Paper bags, jute bags, and bags made of cloths are the alternatives. However, the municipality should give some time for people to adopt such a change,” he said. “Immediate ban may lead huge investments to go down the drain.”
Pokhara sub-metropolitan city banned the use of plastic bags arguing that they have an adverse effect on public health.
The sub-metropolitan city has decided to conduct awareness programs till 31st July, and then implement the ban strictly. As per the decision, which would come into effect from August 1, people found using plastic bags would be fined Rs 15,000.
It is estimated that a quintal of plastic bags are used in Pokhara every day. Pokhara having around 400,000 people produces around 30 million plastic bags every year.
According to experts, eating foods stored in plastic bags for a long time could cause stomach aches, allergies, headaches, and even cancer.
Moreover, carbon and benzene produced from plastic produces greenhouse gases and depletes the ozone layer.
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