Sun Mar 16 04:13:02 UTC 2025: ## Visakhapatnam’s Plastic Ban Fails to Deliver, Stricter Enforcement Promised

**VISAKHAPATNAM, Andhra Pradesh (March 16, 2025):** Despite a ban on single-use plastics implemented in Visakhapatnam on January 1st, 2025, the city continues to grapple with plastic pollution. Expressing disappointment at the lack of progress, Visakhapatnam Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad announced stricter enforcement measures.

Speaking at the “Swarna Andhra-Swachch Andhra” program on March 15th, Mr. Prasad highlighted the administration’s efforts, including awareness campaigns and meetings with stakeholders, which have proven insufficient. He stated that teams will be deployed to conduct raids to ensure compliance.

The Collector emphasized the health risks associated with plastic use, urging citizens, businesses, and vendors to switch to eco-friendly alternatives like cloth and jute. He also stressed the importance of proper waste segregation at the source.

The “Swachch Andhra” program, held on the third Saturday of each month, focused on the single-use plastic ban this month. A rally was held, and officials from the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) showcased eco-friendly alternatives to plastic products. The Collector underscored that achieving the ban’s goals requires the active participation of all citizens.

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