Kathmandu, Feb 24: In a concerted effort to combat environmental degradation, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KAMPA) has taken decisive steps to prohibit the use of plastic flowers and thin polythene bags since July of the previous year.

KAMPA’s directive underscores its commitment to environmental stewardship, with strict monitoring and enforcement measures in place to ensure compliance. Party palaces and other establishments clandestinely employing plastic flowers are subject to scrutiny and potential penalties.

Senior Superintendent of Police Rajunath Pandey, head of the Metropolitan Police Force, emphasized the city’s obligation to uphold KAMPA’s regulations aimed at enhancing cleanliness and environmental preservation. He urged cooperation from all stakeholders and warned of repercussions for non-compliance.

The ban encompasses the import, storage, and sale of polythene bags thinner than 40 microns, alongside plastic flowers and decorative items, effective from July 1st, 2080.

Explaining the rationale behind the ban, Superintendent Pandey highlighted the adverse environmental impacts associated with thin plastic bags, which often evade recycling and contribute to pollution through incineration or landfill disposal.

In tandem with regulatory measures, KAMPA has embarked on a waste management initiative focused on composting organic waste at its source. Notably, approximately 14,000 kilograms of organic waste from Ward No. 27 has been successfully composted at the Teku Transfer Station, marking a significant stride towards sustainable waste management.

Ravinman Shrestha, head of the KAMPA Environment Department, underscored the importance of waste segregation at the source, facilitating efficient waste collection and management practices. He affirmed plans to extend this initiative across all 32 wards of KAMPA, signaling a holistic approach to waste management and environmental sustainability.

As KAMPA continues its efforts to mitigate plastic pollution and enhance waste management practices, community engagement and collaboration are deemed essential for realizing the shared vision of a cleaner, greener Kathmandu.