Mangaluru: In a major step towards reducing plastic pollution, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has announced that every household in Mangaluru will soon receive two free cloth bags as part of its campaign against single-use plastic.
The initiative will cover all 60 wards in the city and is estimated to cost around Rs 80 lakh. The cloth bags will be produced by local self-help groups, thereby also supporting livelihoods within the community.
Soft approach with strict enforcement
Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV stated that the distribution of cloth bags is intended as a “soft measure” to encourage residents to shift away from plastic usage.
At the same time, authorities have made it clear that strict action will be taken against violations of the plastic ban. Shops found selling banned plastic bags risk having their trade licences cancelled.
Officials have been actively monitoring compliance over the past three months through surprise inspections and awareness drives. Despite repeated warnings, some establishments have reportedly continued to supply plastic bags discreetly, prompting stricter enforcement measures.
Crackdown on illegal plastic supply
Authorities have also identified manufacturers of single-use plastic operating outside the city limits and have reported them to the government. Officials believe that curbing production at the source is essential to effectively reduce supply within the city.
Repeat offenders among shopkeepers are now facing the possibility of licence cancellation, as the administration intensifies efforts to enforce the ban.
The move reflects a broader strategy to tackle plastic pollution not just at the consumer level, but across the entire supply chain.
Boost to self-help groups and khadi promotion
The initiative is also expected to benefit local self-help groups, particularly those promoting khadi and eco-friendly products. Preference will be given to such groups during the procurement process for the cloth bags.
This approach aims to empower women entrepreneurs while simultaneously promoting sustainable alternatives to plastic. By integrating environmental goals with economic opportunities, the MCC hopes to create a more inclusive and effective campaign.
Action against waste dumping in rivers
In parallel with the anti-plastic drive, the MCC has intensified its crackdown on illegal waste dumping in key water bodies such as the Netravati River and the Phalguni River.
Authorities have imposed penalties on several vehicles involved in dumping plastic waste and construction debris into these rivers. In a stricter move, officials have also decided to register FIRs against individuals and entities found engaging in such activities.
This action is part of a broader effort to protect the city’s natural resources and prevent environmental degradation.
Conclusion
The dual approach of distributing free cloth bags and enforcing strict penalties marks a significant push by the Mangaluru City Corporation to eliminate single-use plastic. While the success of the initiative will depend on public cooperation, the combined focus on awareness, enforcement, and community participation signals a strong commitment towards a cleaner and more sustainable city.