Crackdown on pan masala brands in Delhi over use of plastic sachets, says CPCB

NEW DELHI: Central Pollution Control Board recently submitted a report on the rules and status of plastic sachets used to pack and store pan masala, gutka, etc., being sold in Delhi.

It stated that unless the sachets were replaced with eco-friendly material, the firms were liable to pay penalties. It added that although directions under Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 were issued, they were not being complied with.As per the norms, sachets using plastic material should not be used for storing, packing or selling gutkha, tobacco and pan masala. Furthermore, plastic material, in any form, including vinyl acetate, maleic acid and vinyl chloride copolymer, should not be used in any package for tobacco products.Earlier, 'The Citizen Foundation' claimed that while the manufacturers were under the extended producer responsibility regime, they were not complying with the same. NGT has now sought details from DPCC. TNN