CHANDIGARH: Haryana will strictly implement a ban on the manufacture, sale, distribution and use of virgin and recycled plastic carry bags, chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda said here Sunday. 

A ban on littering of plastic articles such as plates, cups, tumblers, spoons, forks and straws at public places like national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, playgrounds, recreational places, tourist centres and religious places has also been imposed, according to fresh guidelines issued by the government. 

"No person would manufacture, stock, distribute, recycle, sell or use carry bags made of virgin or recycled plastic. In areas having historical, religious and ecological significance, the use of all types of plastic articles such as plates, cups, tumblers, spoons, forks and straws shall also be banned," Hooda said in a statement. 

"Containers made of recycled plastic cannot be used for storing, carrying or in the packing of foodstuffs. However, containers made of virgin plastic would be in natural shade or white colour," he added. 

Hooda said Haryana state pollution control board would be the authority for the enforcement of the provisions of these directions. Hefty fine will be imposed on violators. 

Officials said manufacturing units which violate these guidelines will have to pay a fine ranging from Rs.25,000 to Rs.50,000. On subsequent offences, licence or the consent letter of the unit shall be cancelled and the machinery and material used for manufacturing will be confiscated. 

Retailers, vendors and other establishments found violating these directions shall be fined Rs.2,500-Rs.5,000. 

Individuals found using cups, plates, tumblers, plastic carry bags or found littering plastic carry bags or articles shall be fined Rs.250-500 per offence.