The Alappuzha municipality has resolved to strictly enforce the ban on plastic carry bags, notwithstanding the opposition that has been raised by a few traders’ groups. Speaking to media persons at a hurriedly-called press conference here on Thursday, Alappuzha municipal chairperson Mercy Diana Macido accused certain commercial establishments, mainly textile groups, of ganging up against the local body in its mission to implement the ban. “The municipality has decided to adopt strict measures including cancelling the licence of traders who defy the ban,” she said. Meetings held According to her, the municipality has conducted several awareness programmes and had provided sufficient time for the traders to abide by the rule. Meetings in this regard were held with traders, residents’ associations and representatives of wayside outlets in November 2014. Door-to-door campaigns had also been organised across the Alappuzha town. Inspections were launched only after providing sufficient time in clearing the carry bags that were stocked by the traders for use. Certain textile groups have been accused of violating the rule implemented by the municipality. It was a few days ago that municipal authorities seized plastic carry bags from a textile shop near the Iron Bridge here. Ms. Macido said the confiscated items would be handed over to the Suchitwa Mission and a fine would be slapped on the commercial establishment. “Contrary to what was being propagated, there will not be any further discussions with the traders’ groups in the issue. Attempts that were aimed at scuttling the ongoing waste management efforts cannot be accepted. Squads will be deployed by the municipality from Friday onwards to ensure that none violated the rule. While plastic having thickness above 45 microns was not banned, using such carry bags without the seal and examination of the municipality will also attract penalties,” she said. Certain textile groups have been accused of violating the rule implemented by the municipality.