But Will It Really Curb Plastic Waste?
Shimla, April 23: In a fresh push against plastic pollution, the Himachal Pradesh government has banned the use of PET bottles (up to 500 ml) in all official indoor meetings and events from June 1, 2025.
The ban will also apply to HPTDC-run and private hotels, which must now switch to alternatives like glass bottles and steel water dispensers.
Director of Environment D.C. Rana said the move was aimed at tackling the widespread littering of small plastic bottles.
But critics argue that while the intention is good, enforcement has always been the missing link.
Past bans have existed on paper, but plastic continues to choke hillsides, drains, and rivers.
In another directive, all public and private transport vehicles—including taxis—must install ‘car bins’ by April 29, 2025.
Without them, registration or passing will not be allowed.
Littering biodegradable waste will attract a fine of Rs. 1,500, while not installing bins will cost vehicle owners Rs. 10,000.
The state has also empowered officials to compound offences and launch awareness campaigns.
Yet, with no clarity on how monitoring or accountability will work, many fear this may be just another well-meaning notification that fails to deliver real change.
PET bottles might go, but will the plastic menace actually end?
