Meghalaya High Court calls for ban on manufacture, use of plastic below 120 microns width

The Meghalaya High Court recently urged the State to ban the manufacture, marketing and use of plastic of less than 120 micron width [Phuyosa Yobin v. State of Meghalaya].

A Bench of Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh directed the State to implement the following policies until suitable plastic alternatives are developed:

• Issue administrative orders or cause to be made legislation or subordinate legislation effectively banning the manufacture marketing and use of plastic of less than 120 micron width;

• Seize those materials less than 120 micron width from manufacturers, distributors and users;

• Take effective steps so that plastic waste is properly managed within a short period of time and;

• Make inspection of public places and recover these items and subject them to waste management.

The matter is listed for hearing on March 11, 2025, when the Court will review the State’s progress in implementing these directives.

The Court was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a total ban of plastic in the State of Meghalaya.

In August this year, the Court had directed the State government to take immediate steps toward banning plastic items in the state.

In response to the initial order, the Forest and Environment Department submitted an affidavit in September, detailing measures undertaken to address plastic waste management. While acknowledging the progress, the Court noted that additional time should be granted for full compliance with the August 16 order.

The Court highlighted how plastic waste clogs water bodies and drainage systems, leading to public health and environmental challenges.  

“Research and experience have shown that these plastic products have some very adverse impact on the eco-system and environment. Plastic waste cannot be easily recycled or safely destroyed. It causes waste management problems. It also affects the ecological balance and environment. Since plastic has a very long natural life, the dumping of plastic waste in public places, in water-bodies and elsewhere chokes the water-bodies, the drainage system and results in accumulation of garbage in public places,” the order stated.

The petitioner Phuyosa Yobin appeared in person.

The State was represented by Additional Advocate General T Yangi B, with Advocates JN Rynjah, WGR Mihsil and Philemon Nongbri.

[Read order]