The Maharashtra government has decided to ban the use of plastic water bottles in its offices including the state secretariat.
In a meeting held at his office, state Environment Minister Ramdas Kadam instructed the officials to ban plastic water bottles from every government office in a time-bound manner.
The Environment ministry had taken a decision to ban plastic carry bags from Gudhi Padva this year.
"Though, we have taken decision to ban plastic, I have noticed the implementation is not satisfactory. Hence, I have taken a decision to first ban drinking water available in plastic bottles from government offices, including Mantralaya," Kadam told reporters here.
The minister further said instead of plastic, the government will promote paper and cloth bags and women self help groups (SHGs) will be empowered to ensure they can meet the needs of the state.
"We will financially support women SHGs so that they can prepare paper bags," the minister said.
Kadam asked officials to supervise hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and other establishments, where plastic carry bags are being used.
The local body authority will be authorised to take action against those which will use plastic carry bags, he added.
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