Abdul Haq visits Jammu to oversee Anti-Polythene Campaign

Seeks explanation from BDO Domel, suspends Panchayat Secretary

JAMMU, MAY 18: Minister for Rural Development Abdul Haq today made a surprise visit to various blocks of Jammu to take on-spot review of the anti-Polythene drive in the area.

          Minister made a surprise visit to Block Nagrota and interacted with the officials and the locals with regard to the campaign.  He expressed satisfaction over the ongoing campaign and urged the officials to continue the campaign with same enthusiasm so that the menace of    polythene is eradicated once for all.

          He was informed that 40 kilograms of polythene was collected during the campaign so far while Rs 700 was also recovered as fine from the violators.

          BDO Nagrota informed the minister that the Trade Union of the Nagrota market has assured that they will make the Nagrota market free from Polythene within a week. Abdul Haq lauded the role of the Business community of Nagorta for standing with the government in fighting against the polythene menace and assured with full support of the government.

          The Minister later visited Dansal block to take on-spot inspection of the campaign. Minister directed suspension of Panchayat Secretary Dansal and disengagement of a GRS for negligence in performing the duty. Minister also sought explanation from BDO Dansal and Secretary Panchayat Domail for over all negligence in implementation of Polythene ban in their respective blocks.

          Abdul Haq said the government has started an extensive campaign against the polythene which will continue till the desired results are achieved. He said government will go ahead with next step for Polythene ban    which may include the ban on entry of Polythene in the state.

         The Minister said he is personally monitoring the anti polythene campaign and asked the officers to report about the drive on daily basis.

          He said the department has also launched an online campaign to create awareness among the masses on Twitter under the #PolytheneFreeJK and people are actively participating in it.  He said people are also against the use of polythene and are ready to give up the polythene use if provided alternatives.

          He said the rampant use polythene has destroyed the Eco system of the valley which is considered to be the heaven on earth. He said its use has contaminated soil and water and even proved fatal for the animals. He said Polythene bags discarded into aquatic resources also caused death to huge number of aquatic flora and fauna.