Patna: In an ambitious move to elevate its cleanliness ranking, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a citywide anti-plastic initiative titled ‘No Plastic-Fantastic’. Beginning August 16, strict penalties will be imposed on individuals, shopkeepers and institutions found using banned single-use plastics.
The drive is part of the city’s broader plan to improve its performance in the 2025 Swachh Survekshan, aiming for a five-star cleanliness ranking after securing three stars this year. The campaign will run until October 2 and places particular emphasis on the cleanliness of the Ganga ghats.
Municipal Commissioner Animesh Parashar stated that plastic and general waste are the two biggest obstacles to a clean Patna. Despite existing bans, plastic continues to circulate due to public demand. “People will be made aware of the harms of plastic, from drainage blockages to contamination of groundwater and harm to stray animals, particularly cows,” he said.
A three-pronged approach has been adopted for the campaign. One team will focus on public awareness, another will monitor supply chains, and a third will take punitive action. The Pollution Control Board will also be involved, and repeat offenders risk financial penalties or having their establishments sealed.
To strengthen the community angle, college students will play an active role in awareness drives. Shubham Kumar, a social worker associated with the NGO ‘Being Helper’, has been appointed brand ambassador of Namami Gange, symbolising the youth-led involvement in riverfront sanitation.
“The Ganga belongs to all of us,” said Parashar. “It’s not just the municipality’s duty to keep it clean.”
The campaign urges residents to use cloth or jute bags and dispose of waste in designated bins. Officials are confident that public participation, especially from younger citizens, will be crucial to achieving a ‘Clean Patna, Beautiful Patna’.
