Maharashtra govt orders crackdown on sale of plastic flowers

Representational Image. Pic/Pixabay

The Maharashtra government has reiterated its ban on non-biodegradable plastic flowers and announced stricter enforcement measures against those involved in their sale, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the State Legislative Council.

Issue raised in Legislative Council

The matter was raised by members of the Legislative Council, who highlighted the environmental damage caused by plastic flowers and their adverse impact on the state's floriculture industry. Members urged the government to ensure a complete ban on such non-biodegradable products and called for stricter implementation of existing regulations.

Government assures strict enforcement

Responding to the concerns, State Environment Minister Pankaja Munde said that regular inspections are being conducted by concerned authorities and action is taken against violators.

Chief Minister Fadnavis further assured the House that immediate steps would be taken to strengthen enforcement. "We will instruct all concerned agencies to take prompt action against those selling plastic flowers," he said.

Existing ban and rising concerns

Maharashtra already has a ban in place on the use, sale, and distribution of non-biodegradable plastic flowers. However, despite the restrictions, the use of artificial flowers has been increasing across urban centres.

Cities such as Mumbai, Pune, and Aurangabad have seen a surge in the popularity of low-cost plastic alternatives, raising concerns among stakeholders.