New push to keep Idukki’s tourist hotspots plastic-free

Idukki: Kerala has set out to tackle plastic pollution in two of its biggest tourist hotspots. Authorities have stepped up efforts to make Munnar and Thekkady plastic-free following the implementation of the Munnar grama panchayat’s ban on 10 categories of single-use plastic products from July 1.Heavy fines have been announced for violations in Munnar, with the panchayat set to begin stringent enforcement of the ban from July 10. Those who provide information leading to action against violators will also be rewarded. At the same time, Kumily grama panchayat has unveiled a phased plan to make Thekkady and surrounding areas free of plastic waste.Ahead of the enforcement, a special inspection squad has begun inspecting shops, roadside stalls, hotels and other commercial establishments in Munnar, while the panchayat is conducting an awareness campaign through public announcements.

Officials said the drive targeted traders, tourists and other visitors alike.The ban was introduced to curb the growing burden of plastic waste and protect the fragile ecosystem of the hill station, which attracts thousands of tourists every day. Prohibited items include single-use plastic bottles, plates, glasses and straws. Those found using, selling or storing banned plastic items will face a fine of Rs 10,000 for the first offence and Rs 25,000 for subsequent offences.

Institutions violating the rules could be fined up to Rs 2.5 lakh, panchayat president S Vijayakumar said on Thursday.Burning plastic waste will attract a fine of Rs 5,000, while those failing to scientifically process waste will also face action, he said. People whose information leads to enforcement action will receive a reward of up to 25% of the fine collected. A dedicated WhatsApp number will soon be launched for this purpose, Vijayakumar said.In Kumily grama panchayat, plastic drinking water bottles with a capacity of less than 5 litres will be restricted in the first phase. Subsequent phases will target plastic packaging used for bakery products and plastic bottles for other beverages. The panchayat is also exploring the possibility of imposing a cess on companies that distribute products in plastic packaging.Panchayat president M M Varghese said discussions would be held with traders’ organisations to ensure the restrictions do not adversely affect the livelihoods of small vendors and shopkeepers.Forest officials, along with Tamil Nadu authorities overseeing the Mullaperiyar dam, had earlier complained that plastic and other waste from drains in Kumily town were entering the Periyar Tiger Reserve and Thekkady lake. Officials said the larger objective was not merely to ban plastic but to transform Kumily into a waste-free panchayat.State govt had banned the manufacture, storage, transport, sale and use of several single-use plastic products with effect from Jan 1, 2020, a move later upheld by Kerala high court. In June 2025, HC directed the state to tighten restrictions on specified single-use plastic items in 10 high-footfall hill tourism destinations as well as at wedding halls, hotels, restaurants and govt functions across the state.