Haryana Pollution Control Board Ramps Up Enforcement Against Plastic Pollution
The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has significantly intensified its enforcement operations across the state to ensure rigorous control of plastic pollution and safeguard the environment. This enhanced drive is being conducted in strict compliance with the rules and guidelines established by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Directives Issued for Comprehensive Rule Implementation
The board has issued explicit directions to all regional officers and field staff to guarantee the full implementation of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. This mandate includes enforcing all subsequent amendments notified in 2018, 2021, and 2022, as well as the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Guidelines from 2022.
A department spokesperson provided detailed enforcement data, revealing that over the last four weeks, from December 24, 2025, to January 20, 2026, extensive action was carried out statewide. During this period, authorities issued a total of 1,849 challans to violators. Furthermore, an environmental compensation and penalty amounting to Rs 16 lakh was imposed on defaulting entities for breaches of the Plastic Waste Management Rules.
Mandatory Compliance and Monitoring Mechanisms
The board has clarified that under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the segregation, collection, transportation, processing, and scientific disposal of plastic waste are mandatory requirements. Compliance is being rigorously ensured through multiple strategies:
- Regular on-site inspections by field staff
- Thorough online data verification processes
- A robust and systematic monitoring mechanism
In instances of non-compliance, the HSPCB has outlined stringent actions that will be initiated, including:
- Issuance of show-cause notices to violators
- Imposition of environmental compensation fines
- Closure directions for operations that fail to meet standards
All officers have been instructed to adopt a zero-tolerance policy in enforcement activities, emphasizing the seriousness with which the board approaches environmental violations.
Commitment to Environmental and Public Health Protection
The HSPCB has reiterated that the protection of the environment and public health remains its highest priority. The board has made a formal appeal to all stakeholders, including businesses, industries, and the general public, to extend their full cooperation in achieving the shared goal of a clean, safe, and plastic-free Haryana.
This comprehensive enforcement initiative represents a significant step in the state's ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution and promote sustainable waste management practices across all sectors.
