Navi Mumbai: In a massive crackdown on plastic usage, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) conducted a special drive on Sunday, seizing 71.6 kg of single-use plastic and collecting Rs 1.65 lakh in fines from vendors across the city’s eight divisions.

The operation, carried out under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde, targeted markets where vendors were found using prohibited plastic bags. The action aimed to curb environmental hazards caused by plastic and encourage citizens to adopt eco-friendly alternatives like cloth bags.

During the enforcement drive, fines were imposed on multiple vendors: Rs 40,000 in Belapur (8 vendors), Rs 30,000 each in Nerul and Vashi (6 vendors in each area), Rs 10,000 in Turbhe (2 vendors), Rs 15,000 in Koparkhairane (3 vendors), Rs 20,000 in Ghansoli (4 vendors), Rs 10,000 in Airoli (2 vendors), and Rs 10,000 in Digha (2 vendors). The highest plastic seizure occurred in Turbhe, where 25 kg of banned plastic was confiscated.

NMMC officials, including Additional Commissioner Sunil Pawar and Deputy Commissioners from both circles, led the operation. “Such drives will continue regularly to ensure compliance and raise awareness about the harmful impact of plastic. We urge citizens to stop using plastic bags and opt for sustainable alternatives for a greener and cleaner Navi Mumbai” NMMC officer said.