Is the Goa government serious on addressing the plastic menace in the state which is reaching horrible levels? Yes, the Goa government has issued directives to panchayats regarding the ban on single-use plastics, aiming to curb plastic waste and promote a cleaner environment. Panchayats are empowered to impose fines on violators using single-use plastic. But why are the food markets in municipal areas e.g. Margao/Fatorda/Vasco/Panaji etc. still distributing plastic bags? Can the government not issue a non-negotiable directive to all businesses to put up signs “Discouraging unnecessary plastic use and asking consumers to get their own bags?” Can the Govt ensure steep fines and even closure for repeat offenders/businesses giving away plastic bags? Those consumers demanding bags can be offered cloth/paper/eco bags at a small charge. As done in Ooty and some other places, there can be ban/fines at Goa border check posts on tourists/travellers bringing in plastic by road... Warning signs for fines for bringing in plastic can also be issued on trains/airports/railway stations/inter-state bus terminus etc... surely implementation 100% could be a challenge but these will go a significant way in reducing the menace.
