Sambalpur: SMC’s Polythene Crackdown Continues; 92 kg Seized in 3 Days, Rs. 21,000 Collected in Fines
Sambalpur: The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation’s (SMC) ongoing drive against prohibited polythene usage has continued for the third day in a row. Today, the enforcement team conducted raids in the Govindatola area, seizing 24 kg of banned polythene from several commercial establishments. SMC officials reported collecting fines totaling ₹10,000 from shopkeepers.
Previous Raids Yielded Significant Results
Previously, raids in two other locations in the city resulted in the seizure of 69 kg of polyethylene. SMC strictly enforced the ban on polythene, collecting ₹11,000 in fines during earlier operations.
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Enforcement Resumed After Long Hiatus
After a lengthy period of inactivity, the SMC’s enforcement department has resumed operations, much to the appreciation of local residents. It is worth noting that Sambalpur was the first city in the state to impose a strict ban on polythene use in 2018, which drew widespread praise throughout the country. The ban was gradually extended statewide, though SMC’s enforcement efforts had slowed significantly.
Call for Regular Action to Curb Polythene Use
Previously, SMC’s frequent crackdowns put significant pressure on polythene traders, resulting in a complete halt to polythene usage in the city and surrounding areas. During these operations, the SMC collected substantial fines. However, with a recent pause in enforcement, the illegal polythene trade has resumed. Experts and intellectuals are now calling for more frequent raids and decisive action to restore control of the situation.
SMC’s Pioneering Role in Polythene Ban
SMC played a pioneering role in enforcing the polythene ban, but it has since lagged behind in maintaining that momentum. The administration’s renewed focus on eliminating illegal polythene is being welcomed, and many are urging for consistent, impactful measures to ensure long-term results.
