BENGALURU – In a significant crackdown on the use of single-use plastic (SUP), officials from the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) have seized a total of 9,567 kg of plastic and collected fines amounting to ₹7,38,700 across 158 cases. The operation targeted major markets and commercial areas where the ban on SUP is being violated.
According to BSWML chief executive officer Karee Gowda, the raids were conducted to enforce the ban and prevent environmental and health pollution. The largest seizures were made in key areas of the city:
• KR Market: Officials seized a combined total of 6,339 kg of SUP from different blocks, booking 25 cases and collecting fines of ₹33,500. A godown in the market was also sealed.
• Avenue Road: A fine of ₹40,000 was collected across 17 cases, with officials seizing 300 kg of plastic.
• Kalasipalya: 150 kg of SUP was seized in 24 cases, resulting in fines of ₹45,900.
• Yeshwanthpur: Authorities seized 110 kg of SUP, booked 27 cases, and collected fines of ₹61,800.
• Chamarajpet, Akkipet, and Balepet: A significant haul of 2,000 kg of SUP was seized from these areas, resulting in 37 cases being filed.
The BSWML has urged the public and vendors to cooperate by using cloth bags and other eco-friendly alternatives to help combat plastic pollution.