VMC seizes 640.9 kg of single-use plastic during surprise checks

Vijayawada Municipal Corporation authorities interacted with a vendor during a special drive to eliminate single-use plastics in Vijayawada on Tuesday. | Photo credit: HANDOUT

The Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) has launched a special drive to eliminate single-use plastics in the city, said Chief Medical Officer of Health Gopal Naik.

As part of the drive, the VMC has deployed 48 teams to conduct surprise inspections across the city on Tuesday. The teams checked markets, wholesale and retail stores, supermarkets, commercial establishments and other establishments and seized a total of 640.9 kilograms of banned single-use plastic. They have imposed a fine of ₹5,56,350 on those who violate the regulations.

Dr. In a press release, Gopal Naik warned that the sale, storage and use of single-use plastics is banned in the city and strict legal action will be taken against violators. He added that their business licenses will also be revoked.

Dr. Gopal Naik explained that plastic products less than 120 microns in thickness pose a serious threat to the environment as they cause soil pollution and also clog drainage systems. He urged traders and the public to switch to eco-friendly alternatives such as cloth and jute bags and paper packaging.

Published – 28 Jul 2026 21:08 IST