Shimla, Apr 23,
To tackle plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices, the Himachal Pradesh Government has issued a notification prohibiting the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) water bottles up to 500 ml capacity in all indoor official meetings, conferences, and events organized by government departments, Boards, Corporations, and other state-run institutions.
The notification, issued under sub-section (1) of Section 3-A of the Himachal Pradesh Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1995, aims to curb the rampant usage of small PET bottles, which pose significant environmental threats due to their high potential for littering.
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Director of Environment, Science and Technology, D.C. Rana, stated that this prohibition, which comes into effect from June 1, 2025, will also be enforced in Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) hotels and extended to private hotels across the state. These entities are encouraged to adopt eco-friendly alternatives such as reusable glass bottles, water dispensers, and steel containers.
To ensure widespread awareness, all government organizations will conduct Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns discouraging the use of small PET bottles in public interest. Officials from various departments have been authorized to compound offences related to the prohibited items.
Furthermore, the government has imposed a fine of ₹5,000 for littering single-use plastic items, including compostable and biodegradable plastic carry bags, especially those used for food consumption or packaging. This applies to individuals, institutions, and commercial establishments operating in areas such as schools, offices, hotels, restaurants, dhabas, temples, banquet halls, public parks, forest areas, roads, and other public places.
In another environment-focused initiative, the government has directed all taxi operators and owners of public and private transport vehicles to install waste collection “Car Bins” in their vehicles. From April 29, 2025, the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) and Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVI) will approve the registration or passing of transport vehicles only after verifying the installation of these bins.
The state government has also authorized inspections by officials from various departments to ensure compliance. Non-installation of “Garbage Bins” in vehicles will attract a fine of ₹10,000, while littering biodegradable waste will invite a penalty of ₹1,500.
D.C. Rana emphasized that these measures are part of the state’s broader commitment to safeguarding the environment, reducing pollution, and promoting responsible public behavior.
A spokesperson of the Himachal Government reiterated that all these actions align with the provisions of the HP Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1995, and are aimed at preserving the state’s natural ecosystem.
