Himachal Pradesh to Ban Small Plastic Water Bottles; Rs 10,000 Fine for Cars Without Dustbins
Shimla, April 23 – In a significant move towards environmental conservation, the Himachal Pradesh government has issued a notification under Section 3A(1) of the Himachal Pradesh Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1995, banning the use of plastic (PET) water bottles with a capacity of 500 ml or less in all government departments, boards, corporations, and institutions during meetings, conferences, and official events.
Director of the Department of Environment, Science, and Technology, D.C. Rana, said the decision stems from growing environmental concerns over the excessive use of small plastic bottles. The ban will also apply to all private hotels, including those run by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. As alternatives, eco-friendly options such as glass bottles, steel containers, and water dispensers will be encouraged.
Government institutions will also launch awareness campaigns discouraging the use of small plastic bottles. The state has authorized officials across various departments to enforce the ban and impose fines for violations.
Under the same directive, the state has introduced a ₹5,000 fine for discarding single-use plastic items—including compostable or biodegradable plates used for serving food—on roadsides, slopes, drains, forests, public spaces, temples, restaurants, dhabas, shops, and offices.
The ban on small PET bottles will come into effect on June 1, 2025, giving government and private entities time to phase out existing stock and avoid economic losses.
Additionally, the state has restricted the use of other non-biodegradable materials and prohibited the improper disposal of all such waste to curb environmental damage.
In another initiative, the government has mandated the installation of ‘car bins’ (in-vehicle dustbins) in all taxis, government (HRTC), and private public transport vehicles. These bins are intended to collect waste generated during travel and ensure its disposal at designated sites.
Starting April 29, 2025, only those vehicles equipped with car bins will be approved or registered by Regional Transport Officers (RTOs) and Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs), who have been granted inspection powers. A fine of ₹10,000 will be levied for failing to install car bins, while littering biodegradable waste outside designated areas will attract a ₹1,500 penalty.
These measures underscore Himachal’s continued commitment to preserving its fragile ecosystem and promoting sustainable practices statewide.
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