Himachal Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Monday launched the ‘Swachh Himachal-Swastha Himachal’ campaign-2021 by flagging off 250 ‘Safai Mitras’ of Municipal Corporation, Shimla from The Ridge here. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the State Government way back in 2009 imposed a complete ban on use of plastic bags in Himachal. In 2019, the State launched a buy back policy for buying plastics from the consumers to protect earth from non biodegradable waste.

Till date, over one lakh kilogram plastics have been purchased under this scheme from the consumers, he said.

Thakur said that the has also banned use of plastics and thermocol cutlery as this is a major source of Environment hazards. The government is promoting the use of patals and plates made from papers.

The Chief Minister said that NGOs and other voluntary organizations should also come forward to check environmental pollution and maintain cleanliness in the state.

Thakur also provided 70 plastic shredders machines to the Urban Local Bodies and municipalities of the State. These machines would help the municipalities in scientific disposal of wastes, he said.

The Chief Minister also administered oath to the people regarding environment conservation on the occasion.