Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: The Peren District Planning and Development Board has officially resolved to implement a total ban on single-use plastic across the district. During a meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office conference hall, officials determined that the environmental and health risks posed by plastic waste necessitate immediate action.
Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang chaired the session and emphasized the urgent need for this policy shift. He stated, "Single-use plastics dominate the economy due to low production costs but pose severe environmental and health hazards." Zeliang noted that plastic waste clogs waterways, endangers local wildlife, and introduces toxic microplastics into food and water supplies.
To enforce the new mandate, the board established a committee led by the Deputy Commissioner, who will serve as the convener. Other committee members include the UDO, who will act as member secretary, alongside representatives from the PHED, DRDA, and the Chief Medical Officer. Deputy Commissioner Hiazu Meru has instructed the Town Council and Ad-hoc Town Council to begin public education campaigns aimed at minimizing plastic usage.
In addition to the plastic ban, the board discussed plans to form an Officers’ Club to encourage interdepartmental cooperation. Officials also addressed the operations of Ntangki National Park, urging the forest department to improve coordination with the park director and the DFO in Peren. The meeting concluded with a review of ongoing projects, including the adoption of Peren Government College and local hospitals, followed by a presentation from the Selco Foundation regarding their development work in the district.
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