Bengaluru :

Plastic was banned in the town way back in 2010-11 during P D Ponappa’s tenure as president of the City Municipal Council.

The town is also called Nirmala Nagara.

Ponappa said he was happy that the concept was well received by the people of Madikeri.

People carrying cloth bags for shopping is a common sight in Madikeri. Even on shandy days, they bring bags from home.

Harish, proprietor of Hotel Omkar, said they have started giving parcels in plastic boxes that are permitted and and carrybags made of cloth. City Municipal Council Commissioner Pusphavathy said, “We have taken up awareness programmes like door-to-door campaigning. We have been penalising people who violate the rules, and we destroy plastic bags that are banned.” She appreciated the cooperation from shopkeepers as well as the public.

“But tourists who visit Madikeri during weekends and holidays pollute the town by using plastic bottles and bags,” she rued.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Cities> Bengaluru / by B C Dinesh / March 12th, 2016