"We have decided to impose a blanket ban on plastic bags, irrespective of their thickness in microns," chief officer of the Municipal Council, Mayura Shindekar, told PTI.
The civic administration decided to impose the ban to ensure protection of the environment of the hill station, which has a population of 14,000 and receives lakhs of tourists annually.
A fine of up to Rs 500 will be imposed if anybody is found carrying plastic bags.
"However, we don't anticipate anyone breaking the rules as we have taken all stakeholders, the residents, and various associations like those of hotels and grocery shops into confidence," Shindekar said.
"Paper bags are an alternative to plastic bags and are cheaper, environment-friendly and easily disposable as compared to plastic bags," Shindekar said.
The council