Kerala to ban water bottles at weddings, restaurants and tourist areas

Thiruvananthapuram: The High Court order banning plastic bottles at weddings, hotels and 10 tourist destinations in the hilly region is likely to be implemented in Kerala. The ban applies to drinking water in plastic bottles of less than 5 litres.

Minister M.B. Rajesh told 'Mathrubhumi' that the core committee meeting will be held on Monday and another meeting of local body chairpersons will be on July 4 and 5 to discuss practical issues in implementing the ban and the possibility of extending it will be discussed.

It is estimated that banning plastic bottles only at wedding receptions, wedding halls, and hotels and restaurants will not yield full results.

Items prohibited

Plastic bottles of drinking water under 5 litres, soft drinks under 2 litres, plastic straws, plates, bottles, plastic containers used to bring food, and boxes from bakeries.

Challenges

Single-use plastics, including carry bags, have been completely banned in the state, but have not been successful. Despite inspections and fines, the reason is the non-cooperation of traders, hoarding, and the negative attitude of the people.

Officials are suggesting that the ban be implemented in all tourist destinations. However, alternative facilities will have to be provided for providing drinking water in all these places.