National Green Tribunal
New Item Titled Microplastic In West ... vs Central Pollution Control Board on 29 April, 2025
Item No.03 Court No.1
BEFORE THE NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL
EASTERN ZONE BENCH, KOLKATA
(THROUGH PHYSICAL HEARING WITH HYBRID MODE)
Original Application No.202/2024/EZ
(Earlier O.A. No.1064/2024/PB)
News Item titled "Microplastic in
West Bengal's Digha and Odisha's
Puri seawater at alarming levels"
appearing in the Times of India
dated 04.08.2024 Applicant(s)
Date of hearing: 29.04.2025
Date of uploading: 14.05.2025
CORAM: HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE B. AMIT STHALEKAR, JUDICIAL MEMBER
HON'BLE DR. VIJAY KULKARNI, EXPERT MEMBER
For Applicant(s) : Suo Motu,
For Respondent(s) : Mr. Sibojyoti Chakraborty, Advocate for R-1 & 2,
Ms. Amrita Pandey, Adv. for R- 4 & 5 (in Virtual Mode),
Ms. Papiya Banerjee Bihani, Adv. for R-3 (in Virtual Mode),
Mr. Bimbisar Dash, AGA (in Virtual Mode) a/w
Mr. Amitesh Banerjee, Sr. Advocate a/w
Mr. Sibojyoti Chakraborty, Advocate and
Mr. Sudip Kumar Dutta, Advocate for R-6 (in Virtual Mode),
Mr. Sudip Kumar Dutta, Advocate for R-7
ORDER
1. Affidavit dated 28.04.2025 has been filed by the Respondent No.2, West Bengal Pollution Control Board; the same is taken on record.
2. Affidavit dated 28.04.2025 has been filed by the Respondent No.7, District Magistrate, District- Purba Medinipur; the same is taken on record.
3. Another affidavit dated 28.04.2025 has been filed by the Respondent No.7, District Magistrate, District- Purba Medinipur;
the same is taken on record.
4. Mr. Amitesh Banerjee, learned Senior Counsel assisted by Mr. Sibojyoti Chakraborty and Mr. Sudip Kumar Dutta, learned Counsel inform that due to personal difficulties, the District 1 Magistrate, District- Purba Medinipur could not be present today in Virtual Mode.
5. Since affidavits have been filed by the District Magistrate, Purba Medinipur, we dispense with the personal appearance of the District Magistrate for future unless specifically required by the Tribunal.
6. Pleadings are complete.
(Final order of the said case will be uploaded in NGT website by separate sheets of paper).
.....................................
B. Amit Sthalekar, JM ......................................
Dr. Vijay Kulkarni, EM April 29, 2025, Original Application No.202/2024/EZ (Earlier O.A. No.1064/2024/PB) OM 2 Item No.03 Court No.1 BEFORE THE NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL EASTERN ZONE BENCH, KOLKATA (THROUGH PHYSICAL HEARING WITH HYBRID MODE) Original Application No.202/2024/EZ (Earlier O.A. No.1064/2024/PB) IN THE MATTER OF News Item titled "Microplastic in West Bengal's Digha and Odisha's Puri seawater at alarming levels"
appearing in the Times of India dated 04.08.2024, ..........Applicant(s) Versus
1. Central Pollution Control Board, Through its Member Secretary, Parivesh Bhawan, East Arjun Nagar, Delhi - 110032;
2. West Bengal Pollution Control Board, Through its Member Secretary, Paribesh Bhawan, 10A, Block-LA, Sector-III, Bidhannagar, Kolkata- 700 106;
3. Odisha State Pollution Control Board, Paribesh Bhawan, A/118, Nilakantha Nagar, Unit-VIII, Bhubaneswar - 751012, Odisha;
4. Department of Environment and Forest, Through its Regional Office at Bhubaneswar, Integrated Regional Office, A/3, Chandersekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751023;
5. Department of Environment and Forest, Through its Regional Office at Bhubaneswar, Integrated Regional Office, A/3, Chandersekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751023;
6. District Magistrate, Puri, Governor House Rd, Puri, Odisha - 752002;
7. District Magistrate, Medinipur, Office of the District Magistrate, Collectorate Administrative Building, Paschim Medinipur - 721101 ...........Respondent(s) 3 Date of hearing: 29.04.2025 Date of uploading: 14.05.2025 CORAM: HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE B. AMIT STHALEKAR, JUDICIAL MEMBER HON'BLE DR. VIJAY KULKARNI, EXPERT MEMBER For Applicant(s) : Suo Motu, For Respondent(s) : Mr. Sibojyoti Chakraborty, Advocate for R-1 & 2, Ms. Amrita Pandey, Adv. for R- 4 & 5 (in Virtual Mode), Ms. Papiya Banerjee Bihani, Adv. for R-3 (in Virtual Mode), Mr. Bimbisar Dash, AGA (in Virtual Mode) a/w Mr. Amitesh Banerjee, Sr. Advocate a/w Mr. Sibojyoti Chakraborty, Advocate and Mr. Sudip Kumar Dutta, Advocate for R-6 (in Virtual Mode), Mr. Sudip Kumar Dutta, Advocate for R-7 ORDER
1. The Original Application was registered suo-motu by the New Delhi Bench of the National Green Tribunal on the basis of a news item titled "Microplastic is West Bengal's Digha and Odisha's Puri seawater at alarming levels" appearing in the Times of India dated 04.08.2024.
2. The matter relates to the alarming levels of microplastics found in the coastal waters and sediments of Digha in West Bengal and Puri in Odisha, two of Eastern India's popular beach destinations. As per the article, a recent study by the Centre's Science & Engineering Research Board has raised serious concerns about the impact of microplastics on marine life and the health of millions of visitors.
3. The news item highlights that the research found an average of 5.3 microplastic items per litre of water on the Digha beach and 6.4 microplastic items per litre on the Puri beach. It states that the sediments revealed even more troubling data, with Digha recording 173.4 items per kg and Puri reaching 190.4 items per kg. It alleges that these numbers suggest that plastic pollution is a growing 4 crisis in these coastal regions, potentially affecting the future of these tourist spots.
4. Furthermore, the news item emphasizes that the presence of microplastics poses a grave threat to the delicate marine ecosystem, with potential consequences for the countless creatures that call these waters home. It also compromises tourists' safety and health as microplastics can enter the food chain.
5. The news item further explains that microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, originating from stuff like polythene bags, bottles, microbeads in personal care products, cigarette filter tips, synthetic fabrics, vehicle tyres, industrial waste, fishing gear and paints. The study identified polyethylene, a common plastic used in bags and packaging, as the most prevalent type of microplastic. It poses significant risk to marine life because of its abundance and persistence in the environment. Moreover, it is highlighted that marine creatures often mistake microplastics for food, which can cause physical harm, blockages and exposure to toxic chemicals. Fish, sea turtles and seabirds are particularly vulnerable. Microplastics can also carry harmful chemicals absorbed from surrounding water. Tourists and locals in Digha and Puri may also ingest microplastics while having their favourite seafood, leading to potential health issues. Microplastics affect fish reproduction, reducing fish populations and impacting consumers and fishermen. Additionally, uncontrolled tourism development from Haldia to Puri and direct release of industrial effluents into rivers contribute to this problem.
6. The Odisha State Pollution Control Board, Respondent No.3 has filed affidavit dated 06.12.2024 and it is stated that the State 5 Pollution Control Board operates a Coastal Management Cell under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Programme ('ICZMP' for short). It is stated that the ICZMP conducted inspection on 06.11.2024 during which samples of microplastic contamination in seawater and beach sediment of Puri Sea Beach have been collected and analysed in the Central Laboratory of the Board. It is also stated that the focus of the analysis is, (1) Quantitative analysis of microplastics in seawater and sediment samples;
(2) Characterization of microplastic types.
7. Along with this affidavit, a Report titled "Technical Report on Investigation into the presence of Microplastics in Puri Sea Water"
has been filed which reads as under:-
"Technical Report on Investigation into the Presence of Microplastics in Puri Sea Water as Directed by the Hon'ble NGT, Kolkata in OA No. 202/2024/EZ (Earlier OA No. 1064/2024/PB) Executive Summary The inspection and analysis of microplastic contamination in seawater and beach sediment collected from the coastal region of Puri, Odisha. The study was conducted in response to directives issued by the Hon'ble National Green Tribunal (NGT, Kolkata). The investigation aimed to quantify the levels of microplastic pollution, identify potential sources, and recommend remedial measures to mitigate environmental and ecological impacts.
Introduction:
Microplastic pollution in oceans and beach sediments is a growing global ecological concern. These tiny particles (1 nanometer to 5 millimeters) originate from sources like polyethylene bags, bottles, microbeads, synthetic fabrics, and fishing gear. Polyethylene is the most prevalent type, posing significant risks to marine ecosystems due to its abundance and persistence. Microplastics are increasingly found across 6 trophic levels, raising concerns about their impact on marine life and human health.
Key sources include land-based residues, plastic dumping, climatic factors like cyclones, ghost fishing nets, and untreated waste. Tourism, coastal aquaculture, and industrial activities contribute to the problem, making beaches microplastic hotspots. These pollutants infiltrate marine sediments, persist in ecosystems, and threaten the food chain.
A recent study by Patidar et al. (2024), highlighted in The Times of India (August 4, 2024), revealed alarming microplastic pollution in Digha (West Bengal) and Puri (Odisha). Funded by the Science & Engineering Research Board, it reported 5.3 and 6.4 microplastic items per liter of seawater and 173.4 and 190.4 items/kg in sediments, respectively.
This poses a severe threat to marine biodiversity and recreational activities. Violations of key laws, including the Plastic Waste Management Rules (2022), have prompted the NGT to take suo-motu action, involving authorities like CPCB, SPCBs of West Bengal and Odisha, MoEF regional centers, and local District Magistrates.
The Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB), responding to an NGT directive, conducted microplastic sampling at Puri Beach on November 6, 2024. The study included sediment and seawater analysis, focusing on:
1. Quantitative analysis of microplastics in seawater and sediment samples.
2. Characterization of microplastic types.
Methodology Study area:
Puri, a coastal district in Odisha, India, lies at 19°47' N, 85° 49' E, bordered by the Bay of Bengal to the east and is a major tourist destination due to its holiness due to presence of Lord Jagannath and picturesque beaches like Golden Beach and Blue Flag Beach. Awarded the prestigious 'Blue Flag' certification in October 2020, the Golden Beach is a key attraction.
Puri's beach hosts a fish landing center, facilitating the trade of diverse marine fishes and shellfish. However, the coastline faces environmental challenges, including sewage, 7 plastic pollution, and significant microplastic contamination, raising eco-legal concerns addressed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The area also experienced severe impact from Cyclone Fani, which made landfall on May 3, 2019.
Puri Beach is systematically categorized into four distinct segments for the study (Figure-1). A single-point sampling approach was employed to collect microplastic samples from both sediment and water across the following locations: (i) Swargadwar Beach (SD), (ii) Golden Beach (GB),
(iii) Blue Flag Beach (BFB), and (iv) Chakratirtha Beach (CKT).
Each sampling station was accurately georeferenced using GPS coordinates, ensuring precise spatial documentation. The GPS coordinates for all sampling locations are detailed in Table-1.
(i) Swargadwar Beach- This region of Puri Beach experiences the highest density of visitors, as it serves as the epicenter for the final rites of the Hindu religious tradition, known as the 'Daaha Sanskar.' This ritual is conducted continuously for 24 hours, resulting in a persistent congregation of individuals at this location throughout the day and night.
(ii) Golden beach- The location lies approximately 1 kilometer to the west of Swargadwara Beach. Under bright sunlight, its appearance takes on a golden hue, attributed to the reflective properties of its surface. Renowned as a prominent tourist attraction, it holds significant appeal for visitors to Puri Beach.
(iii) Blue Flag Beach- The location lies 1 km to the west of Golden Beach. This region is characterized by significantly lower pollution levels, meticulous maintenance, and a pristine atmosphere conducive to environmental and aesthetic enjoyment.
(iv) Chakratirtha Beach- This beach, located approximately 1 km to the left of the Blue Flag Beach in Puri, exhibits notable human activity. It experiences significant tourist influx, contributing to increased anthropogenic stress. Proximity to the nearby fishing village further amplifies this stress, as activities such as fishing operations, waste disposal, and local interactions intensify environmental pressures in this area.8
Table-1 details of the GPS coordinates of the Microplastic Sampling Station of Puri beach Name Code Latitude Longitude Swargadwara-1 SD-1 (Sediment) 19°47'33.42" N 85°49'021" E Swargadwara-2 SD-2 (Sediment) 19°47'31.87" N 85°49'0.29" E Swargadwara-3 SD-3 (Sediment) 19°47'31.56" N 85°49'028" E Swargadwara-4 SD-4 (Water) 19°47'30.05" N 85°49'0.35" E Golden Beach-1 GB-1 (Sediment) 19°47'38.39" N 85°49'2.09" E Golden Beach-2 GB-2 (Sediment) 19°47'3744" N 85°49'2.12" E Golden Beach-3 GB-3 (Sediment) 19°47'37.16" N 85°49'2.14" E Golden Beach-4 GB-4 (Water) 19°47'35.58" N 85°49'2.18" E Blue Flag Beach-1 BFB-1 (Sediment) 19°47'51.18" N 85°49'5.23" E Blue Flag Beach-2 BFB-2 (Sediment) 19°47'48.85" N 85°49'5.33" E Blue Flag Beach -3 BFB-3 (Sediment) 19°47'47.08" N 85°49'5.11" E Blue Flag Beach-4 BFB-4 (Water) 19°47'45.51" N 85°49'5.15" E Chakratirtha Beach-1 CKT-1 (Sediment) 19°48'3.24" N 85°50'4.64" E Chakratirtha Beach-2 19°48'2.24" N 85°50'4.69" E CKT-2 (Sediment) Chakratirtha Beach-3 CKT-3 (Sediment) 19°48'1.78" N 85°50'4.73" E Chakratirtha Beach-4 CKT-4 (Water) 19°48'0.27" N 85°50'4.8" E Sample collection:
For the microplastic survey sample collection was carried in four different stations of each region i.e. from the Supra littoral zone, from the high tide mark, from the low tide mark and from the coastal water. Different sampling strategies were adopted for the microplastic sampling for the sediment and from the water.
Collection of microplastic form sediment and water Coastal and marine sediment becomes the sink for the deposition of micro plastics. Therefore, considering this several mechanisms are available to separate the microplastic from the marine sediment.
(i) Microplastic extraction from Sediment. All sediment samples were collected by scrubbing the surface sediment with 30 cm x 30 cm area by using stainless steel spatula then the collected sediment was kept in labelled glass bottles. Samples were further carried out to the laboratory for the subsequent analysis.
In the laboratory the sample were taken for their wet weight and then subjected to oven dry at 60 °C for 72 hours. After drying, the 9 dry weight of the sediment was taken in order to get the mass of the sample matrix (i.e. wet weight - dry weight of the sediment). Then the sediment sample was subjected to sieving under the sieves of three different size fraction such as Sieve size of 5 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.063mm in order to remove the macro and meso plastic debris. Then the sediment sample was allowed for the density Separation process.
Density Separation Dry sediment samples were taken to a clean glass beaker in which saturated salt solution (NaCI with p= 1.20 g/mL) was added. Then the sediment was stired with the solution for 5 minutes by using a glass stirrer. Then the mixture was allowed to settle for 3-6 hours. Soon after settlement, the supernatant water was transferred to another beaker. Then the supernatant was subjected to the organic matter digestion.
Digestion of Organic Matter To carryout this process exactly 30% H2O2 was added to the supernatant mix and allowed digestion process for 24 hrs. The H2O2 subsequently digested all the organic material present in the solution. Then the same was taken for vacuum filtration.
Vacuum Filtration After digestion, the samples treated with H 2O 2 solution was further vacuum filtered with Whatman G/F Filter paper of 0.7 pm pore size. Later on the Filter paper was oven dried at 60°C for 24 hours. Then the filtered paper was removed out from the hot air oven and taken for microscopic analysis.
(ii) Microplastic extraction from water For the collection of the microplastic from the sea water one phytoplankton net was used with 63 micron in order to get maximum size fraction of microplastic in the near shore water of Puri. After collection the sample was transferred to pre-labeled glass bottle. Bucket sampling was adopted for the collection of sea water samples at different locations. Four water samples were collected from the four different beach regions as described earlier.
10Wet sieving Water samples were sieved through sieves of 5.0 mm and 0.3 mm. Subsequently, the sampling bottles should be rinsed with Milli-Q water and filtered through the sieves. Repeatedly this procedure was made to ensure complete removal of all the samples from the bottle. The material retained over the 5 mm sieve is checked for the presence of mesoplastics. These were removed out and stored in the different location for the further study. The material retained on the 0.3 mm sieve was rinsed thoroughly with Milli-Q water and transferred to clean and dry beaker to carry out wet peroxide oxidation process.
Peroxide Digestion (Wet Peroxide Oxidation) 30% Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) was added in the material retained on the 0.3 mm sieve which was rinsed for digesting the organic material present in the sample. Then the solution was heated at 50°C and kept overnight. Repeated addition of H2O2 was made for the dissolution of organic matter. After complete oxidation of organic matter, the sample was subjected for density separation.
Density separation and Filtration Sodium Chloride floatation media were used for density separation. Then the solution was well mixed with glass stirrer then the sample was allowed. To allow density separation of microplastic the sample was kept overnight. The supernatant was filtered through a glass fiber filter (GF/F Whatman, 47 mm diameter and 0.7 µm pore size) through a vacuum filter. Then the filter paper was removed carefully and rested over petridish for oven dried up. After couple of hours the petridish were removed out for the visual inspection (Figure-4) and microscopic analysis. Visual observations were made in naked eye and if any large microplastic is seen then removed by forecep and kept for further analysis. Figure 4 (j & k) exhibits image showing stereo zoom microscopic analysis for microplastic obtained from water and beach sediment respectively.
Microscopic Analysis:
The analysis identified five major categories of microplastics in the study area: fibers, fragments, films, pellets, and foams, with a variety of colors including white, blue, red, and green. White-11
colored microplastics were the most prevalent, followed by blue, red, and green.
In the beach sediments at Swargadwar sampling stations, all five categories of microplastics were detected, highlighting the diversity of plastic pollution in this area. Seawater samples, however, showed a predominance of fiber-like materials, consistent with observations from sediment analysis.
Among all the four beaches in Puri, fiber-type microplastics emerged as the most dominant category in sediment samples, followed by fragments, pellets, films, and foams. This trend underscores the widespread prevalence of fiber-based pollutants, likely originating from synthetic textiles and fishing-related activities.
The total microplastic abundance in sediment samples across the beaches exhibited a relatively consistent pattern, with Swargadwar Beach recording the highest quantities across all categories. This observation aligns with its heavy tourist activity and proximity to urban sources of plastic pollution.
The results are detailed in the following table and figures, which illustrate the distribution and composition of microplastics across sampling locations, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted mitigation measures in high-pollution zones like Swargadwar.
Microplastic Abundance in Puri Beaches and Seawater (Site-Wise Overview) Table 2 Analysis data of Microplastic in Sediment and sea water Beach Sediment Dominant Seawater Dominant Key /Location (Density: Types in (Density: Types in Observations/ no./Kg) Sediments no./L) Seawater Justifications Swargadwar SD1: 277, Fibers > 1.78 Fibers High activity Beach SD2: 198, Fragments due to SD3: 107 (SD2), Fibers tourism and Avg.19 (SD1 & rituals 4 SD3) increases deposition.
Fibers from
textiles
predominate.
12
Golden GB1: 343, Fibers > 1.34 Fibers 8t Tourist
Beach GB2: 163, Fragments Pellets hotspot leads
GB3: 54 (GB1), to higher
Avg.186 Fibers & plastic waste.
.7 Pellets GB1 shows
maximum
sediment
microplastic
density.
Blue Flag BFB1: 340, Fibers > 0.38 Fibers, Lower
Beach BFB2:154, Films, Some seawater
BFB3:62 Pellets Fragments density due to
Avg.18 stricter
5.3 cleanliness
standards for
Blue Flag
certification.
Chakratirtha CKT1: 196, Fibers > 0.64 Fibers, Urban and
Beach CKT2: 136, Pellets, Pellets, wave-
CKT3: 153, Fragments Some mediated
Avg.161.7 Fragments plastic input.
Sediments act
as significant
microplastic
sinks here.
The Study reveals that sediments at Golden Beach, Blue Flag Beach, and Chakratirtha Beach predominantly contain microplastic fibres and fragments, with minimal pellet presence. Swargadwar Beach, however, exhibits the highest microplastic abundance, attributed to its proximity to dense populations and tourism activities. Fiber-type microplastics dominate across all sites, likely originating from synthetic textiles, fishing nets, and other anthropogenic sources.
In seawater, microplastic concentrations follow the order. Swargadwar Beach > Golden Beach > Chakratirtha Beach > Blue Flag Beach, with fibres being the most prevalent type. The lowest concentrations at Blue Flag Beach highlight effective waste management practices.
Sediment microplastic trends mirror those of seawater, emphasizing Swarghadwar Beach as a microplastic hotspot needing urgent mitigation. Figures 2, 3, 4 & 5 illustrate the observed microplastic types and their distribution across the study area.
13Summary of findings
1. Highest Microplastic Density in Sediments:
o Golden Beach (GB1) at 343 no./Kg o Justification: Heavy tourist activity and localized plastic degradation.
2. Highest Microplastic Density in Seawater:
o Swargadwar Beach (SD-w) at 1.78 no./L. o Justification: Input from land-based sources, rituals and continuous tourist activities.
3. Dominant Microplastic Type Across Locations: Fibers.
o Justification: Derived from synthetic textiles, fishing nets, and other local anthropogenic sources.
4. Lowest Seawater Density:
o Blue Flag Beach (BFB-w) at 0.38 no./L. o Justification: Regular clean up under certification guidelines.
Suggestive Source-Specific Interventions Tourist Activities:
o Install microplastic waste bins and ensure proper segregation at high-footfall areas like Swargadwar, Golden Beach, and Blue Flag Beach.
o Conduct awareness campaigns targeting tourists to reduce littering, emphasizing alternatives to single-use plastics.
Fishing Activities:
o Promote responsible disposal of fishing nets and gear to prevent fiber and fragment pollution.
o Encourage the use of biodegradable or recyclable fishing materials.
Urban Runoff:
o Implement stormwater management systems with
microplastic filtration mechanisms to prevent runoff into the sea.
Enhanced Monitoring and Cleanup:
Beach-Specific Cleanup Drives:
o Conduct weekly microplastic-specific beach clean ups, particularly at Swargadwar Beach, the identified hotspot. o Utilize microplastic sieving techniques during clean ups to capture fine debris.
Seawater Monitoring:
o Deploy marine microplastic sampling programs to regularly monitor fiber and fragment concentrations in seawater. o Collaborate with research institutions to identify trends and sources. Policy and Enforcement:
Local Bans on High-Risk Plastics:
o Prohibit the use of single-use plastics within a defined radius around the beaches.
Stricter Waste Regulations:
o Mandate zero-plastic discharge policies for industries and businesses operating near Puri's coastline.14
o Enforce penalties for improper disposal or illegal dumping of plastic waste.
Infrastructure Development:
Wastewater Treatment:
o Upgrade Puri's wastewater treatment facilities to include microplastic filtration systems to capture fibers and pellets before discharge.
Beach Management Facilities:
o Establish dedicated waste collection and processing units at major beaches.
Public Awareness and Engagement:
Local Community Involvement:
o Train and engage local communities, vendors, and fishermen in microplastic monitoring and waste reduction activities.
Educational Programs:
o Conduct targeted awareness campaigns for tourists, highlighting the ecological impact of microplastics and promoting responsible behavior.
Research and Data Collection:
Hotspot Identification:
o Map microplastic density hotspots within Puri's beaches and nearshore waters for targeted interventions. Impact Studies:
o Collaborate with local universities to study the ecological and health impacts of microplastic pollution in Puri's marine ecosystem.
Certification and Recognition:
Blue Flag Expansion:
o Extend Blue Flag certification standards to other beaches, incorporating microplastic reduction goals.
Eco-Tourism Incentives:
o Recognize hotels and businesses adhering to plastic-free practices.
Prioritized Actions for Puri:
1. Immediate microplastic cleanup drives at Sea Beach.
2. Deployment of fiber filters in urban runoff channels.
3. Regular seawater sampling to monitor and track pollution levels.
4. Local bans on high-risk plastic items like microbeads, straws, and disposable cutlery. The above suggestive and prioritize action plan for management and control of microplastic Pollution 15 may be carried out by the Puri Municipality in coordination with the District administration, Puri References:
Patidar, K, Ambade, B and Alshehri, M. (2024). Microplastics and associated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in surface water and sediment of the Bay of Bengal coastal area, India: sources, pathway and ecological risk. Environmental Geochemistry and Health. 46.
10.1007/510653-024-01926-3.
Mishra, P., Ramu, K., Sivadas, S.K., Sambandam, M., Kaviarasan, T. and Dhineka K. (2020) Protocol for field sampling and Laboratory analysis of marine litter, Meso and Microplastic. National Centre for Coastal Research, NCCR, MoES/SOP v1."
8. The Report mentions that the Puri Beach is divided into four distinct segments and microplastic samples were collected from:
(i) Swargadwar Beach;
(ii) Golden Beach (GB);
(iii) Blue Flag Beach (BFB); and
(iv) Chakratirtha Beach (CKT)
9. It is stated that each sampling station was accurately geo-
referenced using GPS coordinates, ensuring precise spatial documentation. The Report shows that the Swargadwar Beach of Puri Beach experiences the highest density of visitors, as it serves as the epicenter for the final rites of the Hindu religious tradition, known as the 'Daaha Sanskar'.
10. The Report further mentions that the Swargadwar Beach recorded the highest quantities of microplastic/fiber type microplastic.
These fiber type microplastics in the sediment samples were followed by fragments, pellets, films and foams which underscores the widespread prevalence of fiber-based pollutants, likely 16 originating from synthetic textiles and fishing-related activities.
The analytical data of microplastic in sediment and seawater has been given in the Table-2 which has already been extracted hereinabove and shows the highest density/Kg of sediment density: SD2:198, SD3:107 Average 194.
11. The Report also mentions that the study has revealed that sediments at Golden Beach, Blue Flag Beach and Chakratirtha Beach predominantly contain microplastic fibers and fragments with minimal pellet presence. However, Swargadwar Beach exhibits the highest microplastic abundance, attributed to its close proximity to dense populations and tourism activities.
12. Under the Heading Summary of findings, Golden Beach has shown highest microplastic density in sediments being SD 343/Kg;
Swargadwar Beach has shown highest microplastic density in seawater at SD1.78/L; lowest seawater density was shown at Blue Flag Beach at 0.38/L.
13. Further affidavit dated 07.02.2025 has been filed by the Respondent No.3, Odisha State Pollution Control Board and along with this affidavit, Status Report has been filed mentioning the steps taken to curb microplastics level in seawater. The Status Report reads as under:-
"STATUS REPORT IN COMPLIANCE TO THE NGT ORDER DATED 10.12.2024 OF THE HON''BLE NGT (KOLKATA BENCH) IN RELATION TO OA NO. 202/2024/EZ After the submission of detailed analysis report of the microplastics at sea water and its sediments by State Pollution Control Board, Odisha in Puri sea water, the Hon'ble NGT in relation to OA No. 202/2024/EZ in its order dated 10.12.2024 had directed the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha who has been impleaded as Respondent No. 03, to address the issues about the steps taken to monitor the prevention and control of microplastics in the sea water and sediments. The order further stated to furnish the fines collected from the violators.17
The order of Hon'ble NGT questioned the implementation of the guidelines of the CPCB in relation to microplastics. In compliance with the directive dated 10.12.2024, the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha (Respondent Nos. 3), submit the following response regarding the implementation of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) Guidelines.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued comprehensive guidelines under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and other related environmental regulations to tackle plastic pollution.
Four Amendments to PWM Rules, 2016 have recently been notified by Mo EF&CC through its Notification dated August 12, 2021, September 17, 2021, February 16, 2022, & July 06, 2022 respectively.
CPCB in compliance of Hon'ble NGT order dated 10.09.20 in O.A. No, 247/2017, framed the regime for levying EC for violation of PWM Rules, Hon'ble NGT vide order dated 08.01.2021 Hon'ble had directed that "Environmental Compensation (EC) and penal action regime proposed by the CPCB may be duly implemented by the CPCB, State PCBs/PCCs, State Level Monitoring Committees and all other concerned authorities".
Thereafter CPCB notified the revised guidelines for assessment of environment compensation (EC) to be levied for violation of Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 on August 2024. (Revised Guidelines of Environmental Compensation in relation to the violation of PWM, 2016 is attached as Enclosure-I).
Penalties and Enforcement under Plastic Waste Management Rules The Puri Municipality have been conducting regular visits to the marketplace, stockists of the plastic materials. In case to control over the microplastics at Sea water Puri Municipality has been conducting surprise checks at Market areas and near the Sea Beach areas.
Puri Municipality has engaged one agency for collection of plastic waste other solid waste at Sea Beach area. The solid waste generated from the beach area is being collected and send to Material Recovery Facility (MRF) located at Baliapanda in Puri Town area.
Regular enforcement is being conducted on banned single use plastic, littering of garbage and as per records till date Rs 10,08,000/- has been collected and 480 Kgs of Single Use plastics have been seized till January 2025.
SPCB Odisha had issued notices to all Plastic Waste Processor (P), Importer (I), Brand Owners (BO), Plastic Waste Processors engaged in recycling, Co- Processing, Waste To Energy, Waste to Oil & Industrial Composting for 18 implementation of EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) guidelines notified by CPCB on 161h February 2022 vide Lt. No 5063 dtd. 04.04.2024. The units coming under EPR were asked to register their farm on the centralized portal developed by CPCB.
STEPS TAKEN TO CURB MICROPLASTICS LEVEL IN SEA WATER
1. Monitoring and Assessment Implementation:
CPCB mandates State Boards to conduct regular monitoring of microplastic levels in seawater, sediments, and marine ecosystems, Data collection through accredited laboratories using advanced spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR or GC-MS to identify and quantify microplastics. SPCB, Odisha have initiated collaborative studies with signing MoU with CIPET, BBSR, IIT, Bhubaneswar, IITR, Lucknow to join hands to monitor marine microplastic pollution levels in the entire coastal stretch of Odisha.
2. Bans and Phased Elimination of Plastics Implementation:
The CPCB has issued notifications banning single-use plastics (SUPs) and microbeads in personal care products, with phased reduction targets for sectors like packaging and FMCGs. Since July 2022, items such as plastic straws, cutlery, and packaging materials have been officially banned across India, including Puri, where the District Administration has actively enforced the ban.
SPCB Odisha had issued a public notice vide Lt. No 2634 dtd. 19.02.2024 regarding the ban of Single Use Plastic (SUP) with effect from July 01, 2022. In continuation to the above, again a public notice was issued vide Lt. No. 2245 dtd. 15.02.2023.
3. Beach and Coastal Cleanup Drives Implementation:
CPCB guidelines encourage State Boards and local authorities to organize community-based beach cleanup drives. Monitoring microplastic reduction in cleanup zones as part of the impact assessment. Initiatives such as "Swachh Sagar Abhiyan" involve public participation in coastal waste removal under CPCB guidance has been taken up.
At Puri Beach there has been clean up activities including the Mo Beach Puri clean-up initiative and the International Coastal Clean up Day (ICCD) clean-up.19
SPCB Odisha has been regularly conducting Coastal Clean up in month of. September every year at Puri & Konark in association with District Administration and volunteers from School, Colleges and NGOs in relation to ICCD.
Mo Beach Puri Beach cleaning initiative that involves volunteers, students, officials are conducted The initiative aims to make the beach clean, plastic-free, and environmentally friendly The initiative is supported by the Forest and Environment Department, Tourism Department, and other organizations The initiative has been called one of the world's largest beach clean-up campaigns International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICCD) A global annual event that involves beach clean-ups and other efforts to protect the ocean and beaches In Puri District, the ICCD clean-up has involved thousands of volunteers cleaning beaches at Puri and Konark. SPCB Odisha has been regularly conducting Coastal Clean up in month of September every year at Puri & Konark in association with District Administration and volunteers from School, Colleges and NGOs in relation to ICCD.
As of January 31, 2025, local organizations have continued to host beach clean-up events, encouraging community participation to keep the beaches pristine.
4. Public Awareness and Capacity Building Implementation:
SPCB organizes campaigns to educate citizens and industries about the impacts of microplastics and the importance of responsible plastic use. Training programs for local authorities on plastic waste management practices. Programs like "Plastic Waste-Free Cities" integrate educational campaigns and actionable plans.
SPCB has been conducting different awareness program with Puri Municipality and other stakeholders regarding Microplastics in sea water and its consequences.
In a landmark environmental initiative, State Pollution Control Board, Odisha along with Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages; Y4D Foundation and supported by Foundation for Climate Protection (FCP), Odisha Development Management Programme (ODMP) and Puri Municipality, has collected over 850,000 used PET bottles, totaling more than 17,000 kgs, at 20 the Puri Ratha Yatra 2024. The project saw an elaborate set-up including dedicated zones for bottle collection and recycling awareness campaigns led by trained 'Safai Sathis'. In the 12-day festival there was strategic placement of collection bins and awareness stalls, manned by volunteers, ensured that both attendees and locals were engaged in the sustainable practices. This approach not only facilitated extensive waste collection but also educated the public on the importance of recycling.
5. Enforcement of Penalties Implementation:
Joint inspections were conducted with District Administrations, raids and penalties were imposed.
Regular enforcement is being conducted on banned single use plastic, littering of garbage and as per records till date Rs 10,08,000/- has been collected and 480 Kgs of Single Use plastics have been seized till January 2025 as per the records obtained from Puri Municipality. Measures have been now taken for implementation of CPCB notified guidelines for assessment of environment compensation (EC) to be levied for violation of Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.
6. Marine and Coastal Complexity Transboundary Pollution:
o Microplastics originating from other regions or countries through ocean currents exacerbate the problem, making it difficult to address pollution at the local level alone Impact on Coastal Livelihoods:
o Strict enforcement of bans and penalties without viable alternatives can negatively impact the livelihoods of coastal communities, especially small-scale fishermen and vendors.
RECOMMENDATIONS: -
1. Strengthening Monitoring Networks:
o Establishing real-time monitoring systems along the coastline with modem technologies for data accuracy.
2. Enhancing Waste Management Infrastructure:
o Developing state-of-the-art waste processing units, including MBRs (Membrane Bioreactors) and debris traps.
3. Increasing Public Awareness:
o Conducting wide campaigns focusing on the hazards of microplastics and sustainable waste management practices.21
4. Scaling EPR Mechanisms:
o Mandate reverse logistics and recycling systems for all plastic manufacturers and ensure regular audits of compliance.
5. Strengthening Enforcement:
o imposing stricter penalties for non-compliance with regulations and incentivize clean-up efforts through tax benefits for industries.
6. Urban local bodies (ULBs) should play a crucial role in monitoring, evaluating, enforcing, and penalizing violations related to plastic waste, particularly microplastic pollution in beach and sea water.
Their responsibilities should include:
a. Monitoring & Surveillance -- Conducting regular inspections of coastal areas, water bodies, and waste disposal sites to track plastic and microplastic pollution levels. b. Evaluation & Reporting -- In collaboration with SPCB, assessing pollution impact through data collection, scientific analysis. and public reporting to inform policy decisions. c. Enforcement of Regulations - Implementing Plastic Waste Management Rules and ensuring compliance with CPCB and state guidelines.
d. Imposing Penalties -- Levying fines on businesses, and Individuals violating waste disposal norms, particularly those contributing to marine plastic pollution. e. Public Awareness & Clean-up Drives -- Organizing community-led beach cleanups, awareness campaigns, and incentivizing sustainable waste management practices."
14. Reference has been made to the provisions of the Central Pollution Control Board ('CPCB' for short) and it is stated that the CPCB has issued notifications banning Single Use Plastics (SUPs) and microbeads in personal care products with phased reduction targets for sectors like packaging and FMCGs. It is also stated that since July, 2022, items such as plastic straws, cutlery and packaging materials have been officially banned across India, including Puri, where the District Administration has actively enforced the ban.22
15. It is stated that the Odisha State Pollution Control Board has also issued public notice dated 19.02.2024 regarding ban of Single Use Plastic (SUP) with effect from 01.07.2022 followed by second public notice dated 15.02.2023.
16. Under the Heading Beach and Coastal Cleanup Drives, it is stated that at Puri Beach cleanup activities have been undertaken at Mo Beach Puri and the International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICCD) cleanup. It is also stated that the Odisha State Pollution Control Board has regularly conducting Coastal Cleanup in the month of September every year at Puri and Konark in association with the District Administration and volunteers from School, Colleges and NGOs in relation to the ICCD.
17. It is further stated that in landmark environmental initiative, the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha along with Hindustan Coca-
Cola Beverages; Y4D Foundation and supported by Foundation for Climate Protection (FCP), Odisha Development Management Programme (ODMP) and Puri Municipality, has collected over 850,000 used PET bottles, totaling more than 17,000 kgs at Puri Ratha Yatra 2024. It is stated that dedicated zones for bottle collection and recycling awareness campaigns have been demarcated, led by trained 'Safai Sathis'.
18. It is also stated that raids and penalties have been imposed for implementation of plastic ban order. It is stated that regular enforcement is being conducted on banned single use plastic, littering of garbage and till date 10,08,000/- (Rupees Ten Lakhs Eight Thousand only) has been collected and 480 Kgs. of Single Use Plastic have been seized till January, 2025 as per records obtained from Puri Municipality.
2319. With regard to Marine and Coastal Complexity, it is stated that Transboundary Pollution is caused by microplastics originating from other regions or countries through ocean currents which exacerbate the problem making it difficult to address pollution at the local level. It is also stated that strict enforcement of bans and penalties without viable alternatives can negatively impact the livelihoods of coastal communities, especially small-scale fishermen and vendors.
20. Recommendations have been made in the Report such as Strengthening Monitoring Networks, Enhancing Waste Management Infrastructure, Increasing Public Awareness, Scaling EPR Mechanisms, Strengthening Enforcement and it is also recommended that Urban Local Bodies should play a crucial role in monitoring, evaluating, enforcing and penalizing violations related to plastic waste, particularly microplastic pollution in beach and seawater through regular inspections of coastal areas, waterbodies and waste disposal sites monitoring and surveillance to track plastic and microplastic pollution level, assessing pollution impact through data collection, scientific analysis and public reporting to inform policy decisions, strict enforcement of Plastic Waste Management Rules and ensuring compliance with CPCB and State Pollution Control Board guidelines, levying fines on business, and individuals violating waste disposal norms, particularly those contributing to marine plastic pollution, organizing community led beach clean-ups, awareness campaigns and incentivizing sustainable waste management practices.
21. The West Bengal Pollution Control Board, Respondent No.2 has filed affidavit dated 28.04.2025 and it is stated that the State 24 Board has issued notices to all producer importers, brand owners, plastic waste processors engaged in recycling, co-processing, waste to energy, waste to oil and industrial composting for necessary compliance of EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) guidelines notified by CPCB on 16th February, 2022. It is also stated that public notice was published by the State Board on 22.04.2022 prohibiting production, distribution, sale and use of Single Use Plastic (SUP) items within the entire State of West Bengal.
22. It is stated that the Department of Environment, Govt. of West Bengal has imposed a total ban on use of plastic carry bags in all ecologically sensitive areas, major tourist places, hill areas and at Sundarbans. It is also stated that Digha Shankarpur Development Authority along with representatives of local Panchayats conducts visits to marketplace, stockists of plastic materials; surprise checks are carried out at market areas and near the seabeach areas to minimize the use of Single Use Plastic; Self Help Groups (SHGs) have been engaged for collection of plastic waste at sea beach area and it is stated that the solid waste generated from the beach area is being collected and sent to the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) located at Haldia.
23. It is stated that Beach and Coastal Cleanup Drives are being carried out with International Coastal Clean Up Day (ICCD) Programmes regularly in September every year at Digha in association with the District Administration and volunteers from School, Colleges and NGOs by the Digha Shankarpur Development Authority. It is also stated that at the Gangasagar Sea Beach following steps have been taken which is as under:
25(i) Complete ban of plastic below 120 microns has been imposed throughout the Sagar Block.
(ii) Enforcement Teams with the help of Police and Gangasagar Bakkhali Authority has been formed and it has started working in all sensitive pockets.
(iii) Bye-law for imposition of fine by the defaulting public has been passed by the Sagar Panchayat Samity as a punitive measure to ensure the effectiveness of the plastic ban initiative.
(iv) The suppliers of plastics, stockists and wholesale shopkeepers of plastic have been taken into confidence and they have stopped all sorts of inflow of plastic at Sagar Island and instead they are ensuring that eco-friendly and bio-
degradable bags are being used as substitute of plastic carry bags at Sagar Island.
(v) Special Task Force has been formed to keep a watch on the pilgrims, tourists or the local shopkeepers at Gangasagar which is a major site of generation of plastic waste.
(vi) Plastic Waste Management Unit has been made operational at Rudranagar near the Solid Waste Management Unit.
(vii) Continuous watch has been maintained with the help of local police and Civil Defense Volunteers (CDVs) at the Jetty Ghats where transportation of people and things of daily use takes place to stop the inflow of plastic at Sagar Island.
(viii) Steps have been taken to make people aware at the Lot 8 and Namkhana portion from where the movement of people takes place towards Sagar.
26(ix) The display of IEC regarding ban of plastic at Sagar Island in Bengali, English and Hindi language has been put up to warn the public beforehand.
(x) Awareness activities with the fishermen associations and their representatives have also been held to avoid plastic products.
(xi) Extensive awareness initiatives have been taken in the Sagar Block including Gangasagar Sea Beach and all Jetty Ghats, the awareness activities comprise the mobilization of Bajar Committees/Byabasayee Samitee, Schools, Self Helf Groups (SHGs), ration dealers, local vendor associations, representatives of vehicles plying on the Sagar Island, Vector Control Teams (VCTs), ICDS workers and helpers, Mid-day meal workers, all Gram Panchayat/Police Station and Zila Parishad Member, all political parties at Block level and many other stakeholders followed by an extensive announcements through miking at villages.
24. The District Magistrate & Collector, Purba Medinipur, Respondent No.7 in his counter-affidavit dated 28.04.2025 has placed on record letter dated 03.03.2025 issued by the Executive Officer, Digha Shankarpur Development Authority addressed to the Additional District Magistrate (Land & Land Reforms), Purba Medinipur showing the various steps taken by the said Development Authority for waste collection at Sea Beach area, Hotels and Market Complex and bleaching of drains to prevent mosquito fertilization. The letter dated 03.03.2025 reads as under:-
"Memo No.2617/xxx-41/DSDA/25 dated, Digha, the 03 March, 25 From : The Executive Officer, Digha Sankarpur Development Authority, & Spl. Officer, U.D. & M.A. Deptt., 27 Digha:: Purba Medinipur.
To : The Additional District Magistrate (Land & Land Reforms) Purba Medinipur, At-Ganapatinagar, P.O.-Uttar Sonamuni, Dist.-Purba Medinipur Sub: Report on case registered vide no. OA No.202 of 2024/EZ by Hon'ble National Green Tribunal, Eastern Zone Bench, Kolkata.
Sir, In inviting reference to the subject cited above, I am to say in response to Hon'ble National Green Tribunal, Eastern Zone Bench, Kolkata case No. OA No.202 of 2024/EZ Digha Sankarpur Development Authority is maintaining following regular practice for waste collection at Sea Beach area, Hotels & Market Complex and bleaching of drains to prevent mosquito fertilization.
1. Digha Sankarpur Development Authority has engaged one agency namely Pradip Kumar Das who is specifically engaged at Sea Beach area from Digha Border to Digha Mohana (Amantran Hotel) for cleaning of waste. The agency has engaged manpower in the said area for picking to waste so that no waste could contain to the Sea Water and further the same is transferred to processing plants for treatment.
2. Mandatory rules enforced for keeping two dustbins in every shops present at Sea Beach area and regular checking on the same made by enforcement team namely Civil Defense Volunteer.
3. Regular awareness and monitoring against the use of single use plastic, littering of garbage by enforcement team. A separate agency namely Skillware Edutech Pvt. Ltd. has been engaged for regular publicity and awareness generation among the Tourists, shopkeepers, hawkers, hoteliers, and general public.
4. Awareness campaigns conducted at Sea Beach area by Digha Sankarpur Development Authority and different Govt. and voluntary organizations from time to time for awareness among the beach vendors, local citizens and Tourists on using of dustbins, ban of single using plastic etc.
5. Separate dustbins have provided in the beach area, market road and road side tor collection of waste from tourists with SWM messages printed on it.
6. Compartmentalized door to door waste collection vehicles engaged for waste collection from shops, hotels Sr entire Digha beach area in the morning & evening hours on daily basis by the agency.28
7. The sewerage treatment plants are working in the areas under
Digha Sankarpur Development Authority since 2015. Pl-fE Directorate, Govt. of West Bengal has been engaged for up gradation of sewerage system.
8. Dustbins are distributed to every house in Padima-2 G.P. as an initiative to aware people about waste disposal method and cleanliness.
9. Biomining of legacy waste programme and land reclamation of dump site is going on by utilizing scientific method in Digha area. The agency has been working regularly.
10. All the civil and electrical work along with Official process regarding the Solid Waste Management project as large scale is almost complete.
This mentioned project will start to function from 01.04.2025.
11. Regarding this matter the awareness programme is going on social media by film making continuously through the agency namely Skillware Edutech Pvt. Ltd.
Yours faithfully, Executive Officer Digha Sankarpur Development Authority & Spl. Officer, U.D. & M.A. Deptt."
25. It is stated that the Digha Shankarpur Development Authority has also engaged an agency of one Mr. Pardip Kumar Das for cleaning of waste at the Sea Beach area from Digha Border to Digha Mohana and it is stated that the agency has engaged manpower for picking of waste so as to prevent the same from reaching the sea and thereafter the same is being transferred to processing plants for treatment.
26. The Central Pollution Control Board, Respondent No.1 has filed affidavit dated 22.11.2024 and along with this affidavit, an Action Plan has been filed outlining the concerned Ministries/Departments/Bodies for finalization of uniform 29 methodology for sampling and analysis of microplastics with effect from 09.11.2023. The Action Plan reads as under:-
S. Conclusions of Concerned Action Plan with No. the Report Ministries/ time line prepared by Department/Body CPCB, ICMR, CIPET and NCSCM 1 Uniform procedure CPCB to develop i. First meeting for sampling & uniform procedure for finalization of analysis may be for sampling and uniform developed by analysis along with methodology for organizations Central Institute of sampling and involved in micro Petrochemicals, analysis of micro plastic analysis Engineering & plastics conducted (CIPET, NCSCM, Technology (CIPET), on November 09, MoES-NCCR) which National Centre for 2023 (Minutes can be adopted Sustainable Coast placed at uniformly across the al Management Annexure I) country till the time (NCSCM) and ii. Second meeting ISO standard is National Centre for proposed to be finalized. Coastal Research during November (NCCR), CSIR- IITR 2023 to finalize and CSIR-NEERI Uniform procedure for sampling & analysis 2 Source of generation CPCB, CIPET/D Point 2-6, 13,14, of micro plastics CPC, 26 including industries, NCSCM/MoEFCC, i. Preliminary waste management, NCCR/MoES, listing of all points waste water CSIR- IIT R and to be monitored.
treatment, ocean CSIR-NEERI ii. Proposed activities etc. have SOP for been identified. monitoring.
However, exact iii. Compilation
quantum of of technologies for
microplastics Micro plastic
generated from the removal.
identified source has iv. Meeting
not been with Stake
determined. holders
30
3 Microplastic CPCB, CIPET/D v. Awarding
concentration in CPC, NCSCM/ of work
transfer media is MoEFCC, vi. Execution
available for soil/be NCCR/ of work
ach sediment, MoES CSIR- IIT R
surface and
waterbodies, biota CSIR-NEERI
and ocean water.
Micro plastic
concentration for
sludge, specifically
when it is converted
to compost for
land application is
not available
4 Source monitoring, CPCB, NCSCM/
transfer end use of MoEFCC,
all possible sources NCCR/MoES,
listed in Table 3.1 CSIR-II TR and
of the report to be CSIR-NEERI
covered. Emphasis
to be laid on such
areas for which no
information is
available.
5 Regular monitoring CPCB, NCSCM/
of various water MoEFCC, NCCR
quality parameters /MoES, CSIR- II TR
to be conducted to and CSIR-N EERI
provide insight into
the presence and
concentration of
microplastics in
environmental
matrices (water,
sediments, biota)
6 Mircroplastic CPCB, NCSCM/
leakages and MoEFCC, NCCR
pathways may be /MoES, CSIR- II TR
monitored in order and CSIR-N EERI
to identify further
31
sources and
hotspots of
microplastics.
7 Uniform procedure CPCB, CIPET/D CPC, Covered in 1
for sampling & NCSCM/MoEFCC,
analysis as finalized NCCR/ MoES, CSIR-
by this Committee IIT R and CSIR-NE
may be adopted for ERI
such studies till the
time ISO Standard s
are finalized.
8 Health impact of Indian Council of Nodal Agency-
emerging Medical ICMR
contaminants and Research/DHR,
long term studies CPCB, C IPET/DCPC,
are required to NCSCM/MoEFCC,
establish Cause NCCR/MoES
effect relationship of
microplastics on
human health
9 Studies conducted ICMR/DHR Nodal Agency-
on the matter have ICMR
reported about the
presence of
microplastics in
human body.
Physiological or
psychological impact
has
not been reported in
these studies.
10 The aforementioned Indian Council of Nodal Agency-
studies should Medical ICMR
cover different type, Research/DHR,
concentration and CPCB, CIPET/DCPC,
shapes of NCSCM/MoEFCC,
microplastics. NCCR/MoES
Impact of
32
chemicals/biofilms
associated with
Microplastics on
human health to be
covered. The studies
may include the
following:
Estimation of the
duration and
frequency of human
exposure to
microplastics.
Microplastic
monitoring as
required may be
conducted for the
same.
Once the exposure
assessment is done
precisely, dose-
response
assessment may be
carried out, where
the minimum
concentration (of
microplastics)
responsible for any
observable effect (on
human) shall be
assessed.
11 Bioassays may be CPCB, CSIR-IITR, Nodal Agency-
conducted to assess CSIR-NEERI ICMR
the Eco-
toxicological impact
of micro plastics on
animal life.
12 Standards CPCB, ICMR/DHR
development
(Source & ambient)
33
for microplastics
may
be taken up
following
establishment of the
cause-effect
relationship of micro
plastics on human
health
13 Available CPCB, DCPC/CI
technologies to be PET, MoEFCC/N
assessed for their CSCM, MoES/N
efficacy for removal CCR, CSIR- IIT R
of microplastic and CSIR-NEERI
14 Technologies to be CPCB,
developed for DCPC/CIPET,
removal of micro MoEFCC/NCSCM,
plastics from Air & MoES/NCCR, CSIR-
Soil NEERI, CSIR-IITR
AND CSIR-NEERI
15 Source-directed Ministry of
interventions, Textiles,
Sustainable design Department of
and manufacturing Promotion and
of textiles, tyres, and Industry and Internal
complementary Trade,
products (laundry Ministry of Heavy
detergents, road Industries, Ministry of
surfaces, and Road Transport and
vehicles), to Highways,
minimize the Department of
tendency of products Chemicals and Petro-
to contribute to Chemicals
microplastics CDSCO/Department
generation; of Health and Family
Welfare,
Department of
Restrictions on
Pharmaceuticals
microplastics in the
Department of
manufacture and
Promotion and
sale of certain
Industry and Internal
34
personal care and Trade
cosmetic products
containing
microplastics.
Product
requirements for
household,
commercial, or
industrial washing
machines. For
instance, Australia
and France have
introduced measures
to phase in micro fib
re filters on new
washing machines
16 End-of-life Department of
interventions, Drinking Water and
effective solid & Sanitation,
plastic waste Ministry of
management Housing and Urb
practices, to prevent an Affairs,
waste leaking into
the environment and
potentially
contributing to
microplastics
generation including
the flowing;
Reducing the amount
of plastic waste that
enters landfills and
dumpsites through
the implementation
of waste reduction
policies and
initiatives, such as
waste-to-energy
programs and
increased recycling.
Microplastics can
35
also be reduced by
supporting the
development and
use of
biodegradable
plastic alternatives
17 End-of-pipe Department of
interventions, waste Water Resources,
water, stormwater, River development
and road runoff and Ganga
management and Rejuvenation,
treatment, to retain Department of
the emitted Drinking Water and
microplastics before Sanitation, Ministry
these reach water of Housing and
bodies. Urban Affairs
18 Maximizing clean Department of
drinking water Drinking Water and
supply to all Sanitation
citizens in the
country
19 Other Best practices Department of
as listed bel ow for Drinking Water and
minimizing Sanitation, Ministry
microplastics in of Housing and Urb
environment may be an Affairs.
followed: Install Department of Water
physical barriers such Resources, River
as screens and filters development and
on STP/VVVVTP Ganga Rejuvenation,
systems to help Department of
reduce the amount of Fisheries Ministry
microplastics that of Earth Science
enter rivers, lakes,
and oceans.
Support sustainable
fishing practices to
reduce the amount of
microplastic entering
rivers from fishing
equipment.
36
Implementation of
Clean-up efforts for
beaches and rivers
Training and CPCB, DCPC/CI
capacity building PET, MoEFCC/
including NCSCM, MoES/
microplastic NCCR, CSIRIIT
monitoring, analysis, R and CSIR-NEERI
health impact
studies may be
taken up for
effective
implementation of
afore mentioned
points.
Other conclusions
given in the report
20 Independent studies
regarding
microplastics have
been conducted by
various organizations
in the country
including CPCB,
MoES- NCCR,
NCSCM, NPC and
CIPET. Further
international studies
have been conducted
by WHO, UNEP,
OECD and others.
21 The studies have
primarily focused on
monitoring
microplastics
(concentration,
polymer type, colour,
shape)
in various
environmental
matrices.
37
22 Occurrence of
microplastics has
been reported in
oceans, sediments,
surface water,
ground water,
wastewater, tap
water, bottled water,
air, food products,
aquatic organisms,
and human beings
23 There is currently no
standard method for
sampling and
analysis of
microplastics in the
environment. ISO is
currently working
on the subject
24 Sampling and
analytical methods
adopted by different
institutions in India
are similar with minor
variations. Variation
in Microplastic
concentrations units
reported by different
organizations has
been observed
25 Microplastic
concentration in end
use areas including
ambient air, drinking
water and ground
water is available
27. The CPCB has also placed on record 'Guidelines for One-Time Financial Support for Establishing Recycling Plants & Machinery for Abandoned, Lost & Discarded Fishing Gears and High Littering 38 Plastic Wastes in Coastal Areas' dated September, 2024. The said guidelines are being extracted hereinbelow in their entirety.
"GUIDELINES FOR ONE-TIME FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR ESTABLISHING RECYCLINIX 146 PLANTS & MACHINERY FOR ABANDONED, LOST & DISCARDED FISHING GEARS AND HIGH LITTERING PLASTIC WASTES IN COASTAL AREAS TABLE OF CONTENT S. No. Title Page No. A. Background 1 B. Objectives 4 C. Details Of Plastic Recycling 4 Facilities D. Eligibility Criteria 6 E. Inclusions & Exclusion 7 F. Process of Application, 7 Evaluation & Approval G. Financing Structure 9 H. Purpose-Bound Fund Condition 10 I. Oversight Mechanism 11 J. Other Terms & Conditions 15 Guidelines for One-Time Financial Support for Establishing Recycling Plants & Machinery for Abandoned, Lost & Discarded Fishing Gears (ALDFGs) and High littering Plastic Wastes in Coastal Areas A. BACKGROUND Marine litter is defined as any persistent, manufactured or processed solid material discarded, disposed or abandoned in the marine and coastal environment. Plastic is the most dominant component in marine litter, comprising of fishing nets, plastic packaging and other items that are either deliberately discarded or accidentally lost into the sea or onto beaches. Additionally, plastic materials can be carried indirectly to the sea through rivers, sewage, stormwater or winds. The increasing quantity of plastic waste, combined with the slow degradation of plastic litter, has become a significant environmental concern along the country's extensive coastline.
The fishing sector is known to be a substantial contributor to marine litter in the oceans. With a large number of fleet, India is the third largest fish producing country worldwide. Plastic is used in the fishing industry for a variety of purposes such as fishing nets, rope, 39 monofilament lines, buoy, floater, traps, etc. The primary way by which commercial fishing generates plastic litter is through Abandonment, Loss, or Discard of Fishing Gear (ALDFGs), which is a significant threat to marine biodiversity. ALDFGs are generally made of non-biodegradable synthetic materials, such as High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyamide/ nylon (PA), polypropylene (PP), etc. that persist in the marine environment for years or decades. In India, fishing nets are made from these synthetic fibers in different forms, such as braided or twisted.
The quantity of fishing net waste varies in States/ UTs depending on factors such as the size of the fishing industry, the length of the shoreline, and local waste management practices. Further, they are generally replaced every 1-3 months influenced by factors such as rocks, damage due to boats, machine boat impact and interference from crabs and other species.
According to the information submitted in the Annual Report, 2022- 23 by thirteen State Pollution Control Boards / Pollution Control Committees (SPCBs/PCCs) located in coastal areas, a total. of 2.37 million tonnes of plastic waste was generated in the States/ Union Territories (UTs). According to the data from the Centralized Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) portal for plastic packaging, a total of 1.63 million tonnes of plastic waste had been recycled till August 2024 in eleven States/ UTs of coastal area. There are total 899 number of plastic waste recycling units in these states/UTs, with the highest number in Gujarat (426), followed by Maharashtra (218) and Karnataka (94).
Based on the information received from respective SPCBs/PCCs, the estimates suggest that quantity of fishing net waste is 75 kg per annum in Puducherry, about 1.5 tonnes per annum in Goa, 17.51 tonnes per annum in Odisha, 800 to 1,000 tonnes per annum in Gujarat, and 7,342 tonnes per annum in Karnataka. The variation of quantity of collection of fishing net may be due to variation in marine demographics, coastal length, fishing intensity, fishing practice, etc. Presently, various actions are underway to manage ALDFGs generated in the country, which includes establishing designated collection centers (e.g., Kasimedu in Chennai, Veraval and Porbandar in Gujarat, Udupi in Karnataka), setting up recycling facilities (e.g., Madurai in Tamil Nadu, Porbandar in Gujarat, 40 Puducherry), and others. However, in light of the estimated increase in ALDFGs and marine plastic litter in the coming years, there is need for additional waste management actions apart from ongoing measures.
The Blue Flag Beach Criteria specifies that the beach must comply with the Blue Flag requirements which includes no floating plastics, providing facilities for separation of recyclable waste materials at the beach and local authority/beach operator must indicate facilities for the recycling of waste. If no such facilities exist, the applicant must apply for a dispensation from this criterion. Further, Blue Flag encourages all local authorities/beach operators to promote recycling and waste separation at the beach, even if the community does not have a local recycling facility. In India, there are following twelve Blue Flag certified beaches located across six States and three Union Territories.
1. Shivrajpur, Devbhumi Dwarka District, Gujarat
2. Ghoghla (Diu) Dadara Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
3. Padubidri, Udupi District, Karnataka
4. Kasarkod, Karwar District, Kamataka
5. Kappad, Kozhikode District, Kerala
6. Kovalam, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu
7. Eden, Puducherry District, Puducherry
8. Rushikonda, Vishakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh
9. Golden, Puri District, Odisha
10. Radhanagar (Havelock), Andaman & Nicobar Islands
11. Minicoy Thundi Beach, Lakshadweep
12. Kadmat Beach, Lakshadweep (Source: PIB press release July 21 2022, October 26, 2022) In order to facilitate and enhance control of pollution in coastal areas, these guidelines have been developed to provide one-time financial support to project proponents towards capital costs of setting up recycling plant & machinery for Abandoned, Lost & Discarded Fishing Gears and other plastic waste with high littering potential in coastal areas. The units can be single plastic, multi-plastics or multi-plastics with nylon recycling facilities The objective is to protect and conserve the marine ecosystem from plastic litter. The focus is on enhancing and establishing plastic waste recycling facilities in the twelve Blue Flag certified beaches having gaps/limited or non-existing infrastructure to improve waste management in these pristine regions.
B. OBJECTIVES 41
1. Enabling reduced plastic waste and ALDFGs littering in the twelve Blue Flag certified beaches in the country, by facilitating establishment of plastic recycling facilities and thus, encouraging channelization of plastic waste from collection to recycling.
2. Reducing usage of virgin plastics, encouraging and promoting a circular economy C. DETAILS OF PLASTIC RECYCLING FACILITIES The plastic can be recycled through two process routes, mechanical and chemical recycling.
Mechanical Recycling -- Mechanical recycling is generally a main method of plastic waste recycling, which involves processing of plastic waste into secondary raw materials without significantly altering the chemical composition of the material, The process involves the following steps:
1. Collection and Segregation: Plastic materials have varying densities, so they are separated using a flotation process.
2. Cleaning and Drying: Plastic waste must be thoroughly cleaned and dried.
3. Sizing (Grinding): The cleaned plastic waste is then ground into flakes. These flakes are fed into an extruder, where they are heated until molten and forced through a die to form continuous polymer strands.
4. Pelletizing: The strands are cooled with water and cut into pellets, resulting in reprocessed granules.
5. Fabrication into end product: The reprocessed granules are used as raw materials to produce final products.
Chemical Recycling -- Chemical recycling is a process in which a plastic or polymer is broken down into its basic components, i.e. monomer. This process is called de-polymerization. The monomers may be used as raw materials for manufacturing a new polymer. There are various chemical recycling processes, such as pyrolysis and gasification, which converts plastic into gases, and hydrolysis and purification which breaks polymers into monomers and raw materials. The de-polymerization process reverses polymerization by breaking down plastics into their monomers or shorter fragments (oligomers). The resulting monomers are of comparable quality to those used in the original polymer production, making the recycled plastics nearly equivalent to virgin materials. However, de-polymerization is primarily effective for 'condensation' polymers such as PET and polyamides.
42It is important to note that Nylon-6 is a commonly used polyamide for making fishing gear and nets. The process diagram of Nylon fishing net recycling facility is presented below (Figure I). The challenge in recycling of the nylon fishing nets is the removal of contamination such as moisture, algae and sand in the nodes of the net. As nylon is sensitive to temperature variation during extrusion, temperature of 200 - 250°C is maintained. Thus, the fishnet recycling unit differs from plastic waste processing unit and machineries such as shredder, crusher, wash line and extruders are modified according to the requirement of nylon recycling. Also, drying process is a requirement for nylon recycling.
The plastic waste recycling facilities produce wastewater from washing lines. It is encouraged to install a closed loop effluent system to ensure reuse of the wastewater. Based on quantity and quality of effluent generated a typical Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) may comprise screening & settling mechanism, anaerobic / aerobic treatment system and tertiary treatment units, as needed.
D. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
1. New plastic waste recycling units for recycling of fishing gears/ nets and other plastic waste with high littering potential to be established by entities, entrepreneurs, or companies.
2. The unit should have a valid Consent to Establish from concerned SPCB/PCC for establishing a plastic waste recycling unit.
3. The Unit located beyond Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and permissible under local bylaws and extend regulations will be eligible for one-time financial assistance under CPCB Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) funds including Environmental Compensation as well as through Environmental Protection Fund created under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.
4. The unit should have its own valid land possession letter or lease agreement of minimum 10 years.
5. Preference will be given to new plastic recycling units proposed to be located optimally closer to beach, harbor, fishing hotspots, high tourist footfall area and any other strategically important area where no restriction is imposed by any of the Government institution/body for setting up the unit.
6. Priority will be given to registered fishermen's societies interested in setting up fishing gear/ net recycling units.
E. INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSION One-time financial assistance is only towards the plant and machinery cost which includes cost of washing line, grinder/ shedder/ crusher, drying, agglomerator, extruder and pollution control 43 device (including Effluent Treatment Plant) as per regulatory requirements. Cost of land for setting up of aforementioned facilities including other civil and electrical works shall be borne by the proponent. However, no assistance will be provided for meeting O & M costs, or any other recurring expenses. Any financial liability that may rise due to time and cost over runs shall be borne by the proponent.
F. PROCESS OF APPLICATION, EVALUATION & APPROVAL MECHANISM a. Step 1 -- Process of application & Screening by SPCB/ PCC The proponent shall submit completely filled application in the prescribed format to the Member Secretary of the concerned SPCB/PCC of the coastal State/UT where the plastic waste recycling unit is proposed to be established. The application form shall be accompanied with Financial Statement of the proponent for past three financial years and land possession letter/ lease agreement, A committee shall be constituted within the SPCB/PCC, chaired by the Member Secretary of the SPCB/PCC and comprising members from the State Coastal Zone Management Authority (SCZMA), Fisheries Department and relevant Urban Local Bodies. This committee will review the application and eligibility conditions, address issues related to prioritizing proposals in cases of competing demands, and resolve conflicts concerning the prioritization of applicants. Besides suggested committee members from the institutions/ Organizations, if registered fisherman society/association exists in the State/UT, representative from the same may be included as one of the members in the Committee.
The Project Proponent shall make a presentation to the Committee and additional details may be sought, if required. In the case of a favorable recommendation, Member Secretary, SPCB/PCC shall forward the application to CPCB along with the recommendation letter mentioning proposed recycling capacity, process type and estimated item-wise cost of machinery within 30 days of receipt of the application. SPCB/PCC shall ensure that proponent is fulfilling all essential regulatory conditions for setting up the plastic waste recycling unit, prior to forwarding the recommendation to CPCB. In case of unfavorable recommendation, the SPCB/PCC shall inform the same to the project proponent.
b. Step 2 -- Evaluation of application by Central Committee & Accord of Approval 44 The applications and the recommendations of the respective SPCB/PCC shall be evaluated within 30 days of receipt from SPCB/ PCC by a Central Committee to be chaired by Member Secretary, CPCB and comprising representative (s) from National Coastal Zone Management Authority (NCZMA), National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSC), Department of Fisheries and concerned official from CPCB, After evaluation, in case of favorable recommendations from the Central Committee, the proposal may be placed to the Competent Authority, CPCB, for approval for release of funds.
G. FINANCING STRUCTURE The one-time financial assistance will be provided from CPCB Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) funds including Environmental Compensation as well as through Environmental Protection Fund created under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.
a. Quantum of financial support for capital expenditure for plants and machinery Financial support will be provided as a one-time grant of either, Rs. 19 lakhs per TPD of production capacity or 40% of the capital cost of the plastic waste recycling plant and machinery, whichever is lower, subject to a maximum of Rs. 38 lakhs per proposal.
This is based on average estimated cost available from existing recyclers for installing plastic waste recycling machinery such as plastic scrap grinders, shredders, cutters, crushers, wash lines, dryers, agglomerators, extruders, and pollution control devices (including Effluent Treatment Plant).
For setting up nylon fishing gear/ net recycling plant, onetime financial support will be provided of either, Rs. 24 Lacs per TPD of production capacity, or 40% of the capital cost of nylon fishing gears/net recycling plant & machinery, whichever is lower, subject to a maximum of Rs. 48 lakhs per proposal.
A total of 25 units are planned to be established near Blue Flag certified beaches under the scheme, including 13 nylon fishing gear/net recycling units and 12 plastic waste recycling units.
b. Cost sharing ratio -- The cost shall be borne in the ratio of 40:60, by CPCB and project proponent, respectively. Proponent may avail financial grant from other schemes, however, 40% cost of total plant and 45 machinery is required to be borne by the applicant, so as to ensure responsible ownership and operation of the unit.
c. Mechanism of disbursement and the number of instalments After the accord of approval by Competent Authority, CPCB, the funds shall be transferred into the EPR account of the concerned SPCB/ PCC within 30 days. The first instalment shall be released only after ascertaining that the unit possesses a valid Consent to Establish and verification of the unit through a physical inspection by the concerned SPCB/PCC. The funds shall be released directly by SPCB/PCC into the proponent's account as per the following installment schedule.
I. 40 % of the payment shall be released by SPCB/ PCC to the project proponent within 30 days of receipt of funds from CPCB.
II. 30% of the payment shall be released on submission of interim physical and financial progress reports.
III. 20% of the payment shall be released on commissioning of the unit.
IV. 10% of the payment shall be released only after operationalization of the unit.
H. PURPOSE-BOUND FUND CONDITION To ensure that the funds are used effectively and appropriately for their intended purpose, the proponent must submit Bank Guarantees (BG) in favour of the concerned SPCB/PCC, totaling the amount of financial support in four parts. The conditions for both the submission and release of bank guarantees at different stages of the installment schedule are outlined as below, Submission of Bank Guarantees Release of Bank Guarantees BG 1 for 40% of the support amount to BG 1 and 2 will be released upon the be furnished along with request for issuance of a valid Consent to Operate release of first installment by the concerned SPCB/PCC BG 2 for 30% of the support amount to be furnished along with request for release of second installment BG 3 for 20% of the support amount to BG 3 will be released on generation of be furnished along with request for first invoice for the sale of product release of third installment BG 4 for 10% of the support amount to BG 4 will be released thereafter three be furnished along with request for months of production 46 release of fourth installment I. OVERSIGHT MECHANISM
a) Scope of SPCBs/ PCCs Once sanctioned, SPCB/PCC shall monitor the progress of the project and ensure its timely completion.
SPCB/ PCC shall submit stage wise completion! commissioning report to CPCB. Based on satisfaction of completion of work, disbursement as per the instalment may be made by SPCB/PCC to the project proponent and shall intimate the same to CPCB. Post-commissioning, SPCB/PCC shall periodically monitor the plastic recycling unit to ensure that it is recycling plastic wastes collected from blue flag certified beach and fishing nets/ gears. It can also recycle other plastic wastes available and process waste from fishing net yam subject to availability of the adequate recycling capacity. Additionally, SPCBs shall periodically monitor the unit to verify compliance to relevant provisions under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 including EPR guidelines (as applicable) and amendments from time to time.
CPCB/SPCB/PCC shall have the powers of physical inspection of the units after its commercial operation to ensure effective implementation of the guidelines.
SPCBs/PCCs shall have the authority to verify the relevant records at any time. If it is found that the conditions outlined in these guidelines or those imposed by the concerned SPCB/PCC are not complied with, or if there has been misuse of funds, the bank guarantee submitted by the proponent may be forfeited, and the amount deposited with the CPCB in CPCB-EPR account. Copy of the Annual Report (Annexure 11) shall be forwarded by SPCB/ PCC to CPCB before 31st May of every year. The SPCBs/PCCs shall ensure that following conditions are adequately covered or addressed in the Consent to Operate issued to Fishing gear recyclers and Marine Plastic Waste Recycler,
1. The unit shall be considered under orange category for the purpose of validity period of consent.
2. The unit shall use only discarded fishnets, pre manufacture waste from fishnet manufacture industries and marine plastics waste as raw material.
3. The unit shall maintain adequate ventilation and lights to maintain good working conditions.
474. The workers shall be provided with adequate safety gears/personal protective equipment (PPEs).
5. The unit shall ensure adequate fire extinguishing system.
6. The unit shall treat and dispose domestic wastewater in line with consent condition. The trade effluent shall be recycled for washing/process purpose after necessary treatment. In case of need of disposal of excess treated trade effluent, the mode of disposal, applicable norms and required treatment facility shall be clearly prescribed in the consent.
7. The conveyor system having potential for generation of fugitive emissions shall be covered with required enclosure.
8. Agglotnerators and extruders shall be provided with adequate suction hood connected with vent routed through charcoal column scrubber to treat the volatile emissions.
9. There shall not be any flue gas or process gas generation from the process.
10. The unit shall take adequate measures to control noise levels from its own source within the premises so as to maintain ambient air quality standards.
11. The unit shall maintain proper records of quantity of discarded fishnets, pre manufacture waste from fishnet manufacture industries and marine plastics used as raw material, processed and quantity of recycled product/granules sold. The records shall be submitted to CPCB and SPCB on half yearly basis.
12. The raw material shall be transported in dry condition so that leakage/seepage of leachate or liquid waste does not take place. Truck/lorries used for transportation of waste shall be properly covered with tarpaulins.
13. The unit shall obtain NOC from designated Authorities as per the prevailing Rules of the State in case the source of water is bore well/ground water,
14. The electromagnetic flow meters shall be installed at raw water intake, proper records and log books shall be maintained.
15. The electromagnetic flow meters shall be installed at inlet & outlet of ETP. Records or Logbooks shall be maintained for effluent generated, treated effluent recycled or reused; excess treated effluent disposed as per consent condition.
16. The unit should put up two sign boards (6x4 ft. each) at publicly visible places at the main gate indicating the products, effluent discharge standards, air emission standards, hazardous 48 waste quantities and validity of CTO and exhibit the CTO order at a prominent place in the factory premises.
17. The solid waste generated, if any from the process/activity should be disposed in line with consent conditions or conditions imposed by local authority. The waste should not be dumped/thrown/littered or burnt.
18. The industry shall develop green belt all along the periphery to maximum extent possible and in the available vacant land.
19. The industry shall maintain the following records and the same shall be made available to the inspecting officers of the Board:
Daily receipt of discarded fishnets, pre manufacture waste from fishnet manufacture industries and marine plastics waste and daily production details.
Power/energy consumption details.
Log Books for pollution control systems.
Solid waste generated, recycled/disposed, 20, Other conditions can also be added as per local requirements.
20. Other conditions can also be added as per local requirements.
b) Scope of CPCB CPCB shall review the Annual Report submitted by SPCBs/ PCCs and may at any time direct withdrawal of financial support or forfeiture of the bank guarantee submitted by Project Proponent, if the terms and conditions of these guidelines have been violated or if there has been misuse of funds. In such case, the fund shall be deposited back to CPCB-EPR account.
A dedicated portal shall be established for monitoring project progress, generating electronic annual reports, and managing the disbursement of funds including tracking of financial transactions.
c) Scope of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) ULBs shall establish and implement mechanisms for the collection, storage, and transportation of discarded fishing gears/nets and plastic waste from the 12 blue flag certified beaches. ULBs may collaborate with fishing communities, startups, civil society, and informal sector to develop effective collection and transportation systems, to ensure availability of wastes for the recycling units.
d) Monitoring Committee 49 For effective monitoring of implementation of the projects sanctioned under this scheme following monitoring Committee shall be constituted at State/ UT level:
1) Official from Regional Office of SPCB (Regional Officer)
2) Official from Department of Fisheries
3) Official from Regional Directorate of CPCB (Not below the rank of Scientist B) The Committee shall inspect the unit once in six months and submit the joint inspection report to SPCB/CPCB. The Committee shall verify records of raw material procured, processed and product sold. All pollution control measures shall also be verified to ensure proper functioning.
J. OTHER TERMS & CONDITIONS Applications will be considered on first-come-first-serve basis. Unit shall comply with conditions prescribed in the consent issued. Preference shall be given to proposals having agreements with local authorities, fishing communities, or any other agency for the assured availability of fishing nets/gears and plastic wastes from Blue Flag certified beaches.
Preference will be given to proposals planning to install plant and machinery manufactured under `Make in India' program. Machinery should be purchased and plant shall be made operational within 01 year of transfer of funds. Bills/ invoices shall be submitted to SPCBs/PCCs subsequently.
CPCB shall have the powers to modify the guidelines in any manner as may be deemed necessary for its successful implementation and for removing any difficulties in its operationalization.
There is no provision for retrospective funding. Units possessing Consent to Operate (CTO) dated prior to the issuance of these guidelines are ineligible for financial assistance under the scheme. In case of any dispute, the decision of Chairman, Central Pollution Control Board would be final."
28. A perusal of the guidelines shows that as per information received from respective SPCBs/PCCs, the estimates suggest that quantity of fishing net waste is 75 kg per annum in Puducherry, about 1.5 tonnes per annum in Goa, 17.51 tonnes per annum in Odisha, 800 50 to 1000 tonnes per annum in Gujarat, and 7,342 tonnes per annum in Karnataka.
29. Blue Flag Beach Criteria mentioned in the guidelines specifies that the beach must comply with the Blue Flag requirements which includes no floating plastics, providing facilities for separation of recyclable waste materials at the beach and local authority/beach operator must indicate facilities for the recycling of waste. If no such facilities exist, the applicant must apply for a dispensation from this criterion. It is stated that the Blue Flag encourages all local authorities/beach operators to promote recycling and waste separation at the beach, even if the community does not have a local recycling facility. It is also stated that there are 12 Blue Flag certified beaches in India, Golden Beach in Puri District, Odisha being one of them.
30. The guidelines further state its objectives as:-
(1) Enabling reduced plastic waste and Abandoned, Lost & Discarded Fishing Gears ('ALDFGs' for short) littering in the twelve Blue Flag certified beaches in the country, by facilitating establishment of plastic recycling facilities and encouraging channelization of plastic waste from collection to recycling.
(2) Reducing usage of virgin plastics, encouraging and promoting a circular economy.
31. The details of plastic recycling facilities, provides that plastic can be recycled through two process routes, (i) mechanical and (ii) chemical recycling. The guidelines also provide for new plastic waste recycling units for recycling of fishing gears/nets and other plastic waste with high littering potential to be established by entities, entrepreneurs, or companies and further provides that the 51 unit should have a valid Consent to Establish from concerned SPCB/PCC for establishing a plastic waste recycling unit.
32. We have heard the learned Counsel for the parties and gone through the documents on record.
33. Various steps for checking, analyzing and control of microplastic at concerned beaches have been outlined by the Respondent-States of Odisha and West Bengal along with the guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board from time to time which are indeed laudable. However, needless to say that while steps are being taken by the States for cleaning of the beaches by removing microplastics through Self Help Groups (SHGs), NGOs etc. but the fact that plastic items are still found at the beaches leads to the inference that there has been laxity in checking and control of such plastic by tourists and pilgrims. Enforcement of rules at source namely at the entry point where tourists and pilgrims visit the beaches is absolutely essential and though this may be enforced by the regular police by the Government of Odisha and Government of West Bengal, however, in our opinion, the State Government must also consider creating a Task Force to prevent pilgrims and tourists from bringing prohibited plastic items and prohibited degrees of plastic onto the beaches. This can be done by starting with the Hotels, Dharmshalas, Guest Houses and other places where pilgrims and tourists come to reside. Strict vigilance has to be maintained at all the beach sites to ensure that the various shops lined across the beach areas do not surreptitiously attempt to sell plastic items of prohibited categories. Ultimately everything depends upon enforcement of Rules, Guidelines and the Notifications issued by the CPCB, SPCBs and adoption of Zero 52 Tolerance towards banned plastic by the concerned Governments from time to time and unless the rules are enforced at source all attempts to keep the beaches free from microplastic would be rendered futile.
34. We, therefore, dispose of this Original Application with a direction to the State Respondents of Odisha and West Bengal to ensure the strict enforcement of CPCB and SPCBs Notifications/Guidelines issued by the Government from time to time with a zero tolerance towards the use of Single Use of Plastic and other prohibited categories of plastics at the various beaches in these two States.
35. I.As., if any, stand disposed of accordingly.
36. There shall be no order as to costs.
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B. Amit Sthalekar, JM ......................................
Dr. Vijay Kulkarni, EM April 29, 2025, Original Application No.202/2024/EZ (Earlier O.A. No.1064/2024/PB) MN 53