CSMC squad raids warehouses in Angoori Baugh; seizes over 5,000 kg of banned plastic carry bags

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

The municipal corporation has once again launched a drive to make the city plastic carry-bag free. On Wednesday, a major operation was carried out at three large warehouses in the Angoori Baugh area. A total stock of 5,170 kg of banned plastic carry bags was seized from these warehouses. The action created a stir among traders, and a fine of Rs 75,000 (Rs 25,000 each from three traders) was imposed.

On Tuesday, during the general body (GB) meeting, corporators from all parties had cornered the municipal corporation over single-use plastic. Mayor Sameer Rajurkar had also issued a warning in this regard. Angoori Baugh is known as a major hub for the sale of banned carry bags. Deputy Commissioner of the Solid Waste Management Section, Nandkishor Bhombe, had already stationed teams in the area since night.

On Wednesday morning, as soon as officials and staff noticed that a warehouse of Shalimar Plastic had been opened, they launched a swift operation. A large stock of carry bags was found there. On seeing the municipal team, other traders locked their warehouses and fled. The corporation then broke open the locks of additional warehouses, where large quantities of plastic bags were also recovered.

A total of 5,170 kg of banned plastic carry bags was seized. The confiscated stock was documented through a panchanama and transported to the waste processing centre at Harsul, where it was shredded and safely disposed of. Bhombe said that regular action through the “Nagari Mitra Pathak” (NMP) will continue.

Elected representatives at the site

During the operation, husbands of two corporators and the son of another corporator arrived at the spot. They left after being explained the situation by civic officials. There were also attempts throughout the day by political representatives to pressure civic officials to stop the action.

Support from Commissioner and Office-bearers

The seized stock was brought in front of the Smart City Office, where Mayor Sameer Rajurkar warned that the use of banned carry bags would not be tolerated. Municipal Commissioner Amol Yedge stated that criminal cases would be registered. Deputy mayor Rajendra Janjal, standing committee chairman Anil Makariye, house leader Govind Kendre, and leader of opposition Abdul Sameer Sajid also extended their support to the action.