Priya Gour
Published on: 17th August, 2022 at 20:33 IST
The Madras High Court has directed the centre to find alternatives to currently used plastic bottles. The bench of Justices S Vaidyanathan and PT Asha directed so while hearing a plea relating to “plastic ban” in the State.
The court expressed its concern over the distribution of water in public places through plastic bottles and bubble-top cans.
“Insofar as drinking water stored in plastic bottles is concerned, it becomes a significant problem not only for the well-being of the environment, but, also for the quality of our health.”
The court said that despite its harmful effects, bubble top water is used in all places in the state. The water has the chance of becoming toxic if stored in such plastic containers for a longer time period.
The State Government has been directed by the Court to file a status report on how drinking water is prepared in the state and the cleaning of water cans; information about the life span of water cans; and the duration of water stored in them.
It would also enquire about the method currently used for the destruction of these water cans. The state has to maintain all relevant records on this matter.
The bench also showed concern about the viability of offering milk in bottles instead of sachets and suggested that AAVIN (a state government cooperative) be involved in this. It could offer a choice to consumers to buy milk in bottles on a chargeable basis. This suggestion was also made for other edible items currently being sold in sachets. They could be packed with substitutes.
Efforts should be made to eliminate the milk sachets. The court also suggested that AAVIN should supply milk in non-hazardous containers. This suggestion was also made for other medicines currently being sold in sachets. They could be packed with substitutes.
The court has asked the Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration Department, DMS Complex, Teynampet, as a party, to provide their suggestions for a plastic free society.
Subsequently, the court has listed the matter to be heard on August 29.