The Kerala High Court has banned the use of plastic water bottles at weddings and other events in the state. The court stated that small plastic bottles were harmful to the environment and ordered that plastic should not be used at official events, unless absolutely necessary.
This decision comes in response to growing concerns from environmentalists about the rising use of plastic. Despite many warnings, there has been little improvement, leading the High Court to take strong action.
The court emphasised the harmful impact of plastic on the environment and stressed that it should only be used when there is no other option.
The order was made during the hearing of a case regarding the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. The judges highlighted the need for strict measures to eliminate non-reusable plastic in the state. They also questioned the state government about how a complete ban on plastic water bottles would be enforced.
In response, the government’s lawyer informed the court that events with more than 100 attendees would need a license to use plastic, which could be issued by local self-government bodies. The special secretary from the local self-government department also clarified that there is already a ban on half-liter plastic water bottles at weddings.
Additionally, the High Court directed the railways to ensure cleanliness on railway tracks. The court stated that it is unacceptable to allow garbage to be thrown on tracks and emphasised that the railways must take responsibility for maintaining hygiene and following the law.
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