Single-use plastic ban ineffective in 84% of surveyed sites across four Indian cities
A study by Toxics Link revealed that 84% of 560 surveyed locations across Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Guwahati, and Mumbai continue to use banned single-use plastic items, three years after the nationwide prohibition. The report highlights significant enforcement gaps, with Bhubaneswar showing the highest non-compliance at 89%. Informal markets and small commercial establishments exhibit widespread use of banned items, attributing it to high customer demand and the higher cost of alternatives. The study calls for stronger national action, robust enforcement, and coordinated regulatory efforts to ensure compliance.
Key Points
- 84% of surveyed locations in four major Indian cities continue to use banned single-use plastic items, indicating a significant failure in enforcement.
- Bhubaneswar recorded the highest non-compliance at 89%, followed by Delhi (86%), Mumbai (85%), and Guwahati (76%).
- Informal markets and small commercial establishments are major violators, citing high customer demand and costly alternatives as reasons.
- The report recommends stronger national action, robust enforcement, regular inspections, and coordinated regulatory efforts to improve implementation.
Exam Facts
- Study conducted by Toxics Link, a New Delhi-based environmental organization.
- Survey covered 560 locations across Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Guwahati, and Mumbai.
- Bhubaneswar: 89% non-compliance.
- Survey period: April to August 2025.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.