To tackle the plastic scourge the state govt proposes to levy a charge on plastic bottles. Under the proposed deposit refundable scheme (DRS) customers will have to pay a refundable deposit of Rs 5-10 on every plastic bottle purchased. The customer will be required to return the bottle to the same shop to claim a refund. Shopkeepers will not take kindly to the scheme as it will put a burden on the customer. Also shopkeepers don't have the time to check and refund the deposit, which will lead to arguments. Who will pick up the large daily collection of plastic bottles? My suggestion: We are blessed with a large army of ragpickers who receive very little recompense for a hard day's labour. We can easily pay them 3-4 times the amount they receive presently, and thereby completely rid Goa of plastic. Here's how: A small charge of 50 paise may be levied on plastic bottles/containers below 1 litre; Rs1 for 1 litre and above; Rs 2 for 2 litres and more. This charge must be levied on manufactured product.
