Koramangala residents to launch plastic ban on Valentine's Day

This Valentine's Day is going to be special for residents of Koramangala. Taking a cue from HSR Layout and Yelahanka, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) along with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) will launch the plastic bag ban movement from February 14 with a walkathon. 

While the implementation will take effect from February 27, the drive that will include a range of awareness programmes will start from February 14 with volunteers from each of the eight blocks at Koramangala interacting with citizens.

 The idea to implement the ban was chalked out a month ago by members of various Koramangala RWAs. Dumping of dry waste on streets, burning of plastic covers by miscreants and health hazards associated with it prompted the RWAs to do something for a clean neighbourhood. 

Annie Joseph from Koramangala I Block RWA said members later studied the plastic ban drive undertaken at Yelahanka and HSR Layout. She added: “ We held a meeting with traders on February 10 about our proposal. About 200 traders pledged their support and said that they were willing to ditch the plastic bags and opt for eco-friendly options. BBMP officials would fine those using plastic covers from February 27.”

Residents are happy about the initiative and hoping that it would be a success. Vice-president, Koramangala 4th Block RWA Parvathi Srirama said she will take part in the walkathon on Sunday. “Once plastic use is stopped, then the garbage issue will automatically reduce. We are happy about the drive,” she added. 

The walkathon on February 14 will start at 10.30 am at 20th Main, 5th Cross, BBMP Playground, Munireddy Kalyana Mantapa, Koramangala 5th Block. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy will flag off the event.  

Regular drivesBBMP Joint Commissioner, South zone, Hemchandra said school students and universities are expected to take part in huge numbers on February 14. He said: “From February 27, we will undertake inspections and drives on a regular basis to keep a tab on plastic use.  A week back, a similar drive was launched at BTM Layout. Public support is needed for its effective implementation.”DH News Service