Kohima: Chumoukedima Deputy Commissioner Polan John issued an order banning single-use plastic and plastic bottles across the district. The mandate begins August 1, 2026. This directive aligns with a recent notification from the Home Department General Administration Branch. The goal is simple: stop the environmental rot caused by excessive plastic waste.
Retailers have exactly three weeks to clear their current inventory before the rules bite. Authorities intend to enforce these restrictions strictly once the grace period expires. Officials must now push public awareness campaigns to ensure citizens understand the new requirements. The district is not playing around.
The ban covers a massive list of common items. Prohibited goods include plastic carry bags, cutlery like plates, cups, forks, spoons, and straws, plus thermocol products. The order also sweeps up polythene, nylon, PVC, polypropylene, and polystyrene items. You cannot use flex banners or posters for government functions. The list extends to sticks used for balloons and flags, plastic trays, and wrapping or packing films.
PVC banners measuring under 100 microns are off-limits. Finally, the ban prohibits packaged drinking water bottles under 20 litres. This applies to meetings, functions, seminars, and personal consumption. As the administration noted, the move is a "major step towards environmental protection" to address the ecological challenges facing the region.
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