Sambalpur: Plastic Raids Continue Despite Plastic-Free Declaration; Warehouses Remain Uninspected, Unrestricted Use of Plastic in Fairs and Festivals Despite Ban

Polythene Still in Use Despite Ban

Sambalpur: Sambalpur was officially declared a polythene-free city. Later, restrictions were also imposed on paper cups and water pouches. However, polythene is still widely used across the city whether in fairs, festivals, shops, or among water vendors.

Despite the ban, polythene continues to enter the city and reach various shops. This has triggered sharp reactions from the public. Many are questioning how and why plastic is still available so easily.

Selective Raids Raise Concerns

In response to repeated public complaints, Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) has been conducting raids. However, the focus seems to be only on small vendors, while big wholesalers and godowns supplying polythene are reportedly being ignored.

Earlier, SMC had raided major warehouses and seized large quantities of polythene, along with collecting fines. But now, critics say these actions are just for show.

Citizens Demand Action on Suppliers

Social activist and president of Samajik Anusthan Sadhana, Surya Panigrahi, stated that targeting only small traders will not solve the problem. According to him, unless the main suppliers and godowns are raided, Sambalpur cannot become truly polythene-free.

He also suggested regular checks at the city’s entry points to stop the inflow of polythene. Only strict action against wholesalers and agents can lead to real change, he said.

Impact on Tea Shops and Price Hike

Due to restrictions on paper cups, many tea vendors have switched to steel or glass cups. Earlier, a cup of tea used to cost Rs. 5. Now, the price has gone up to Rs. 10.

Surprisingly, during fairs and festivals, one can still see piles of waste including paper water glasses and pouches scattered everywhere. This shows that the rules are not being enforced uniformly.

Municipal Inaction Criticized

Despite all these issues, Sambalpur Municipal Corporation has not taken any independent steps to solve the problem. People have also complained that they couldn’t reach the enforcement officials for comments.

Unless the corporation takes strict and consistent action, citizens believe the dream of a polythene-free Sambalpur will remain incomplete.