Ban on poly bags in Kathmandu

Kathmandu: Nepal on Tuesday declared capital Kathmandu a polythene-free zone as the country observed its official New Year. The capital was declared a 'polythene bags-free area' at an assembly organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment here.

The government representatives and the stakeholders present on the occasion expressed commitment not to use polythene bags from now on wards as it was harmful to human health and a major pollutant. Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh said the government has banned the production and use of polythene bags in Kathmandu Valley for the time being and would follow suit in places outside the Valley after some time.