Manish Sirhindi The historic city of Panipat is all set to find mention in the books again. This time for a battle that is being fought collectively against polythene menace. A home to more than four lakh people, the city saw more environmental degradation than other places in the state. But, with the residents deciding to take up the cause of environment and fight the use of polythene carry bags, which has become one of the major pollutants, the city has set an example for others to follow. The drive against polythene carry bags has shown some results in Delhi and Chandigarh where efforts are on to implemented a complete ban, but at many other places it continues to remain a mere formality. It was last year when the district administration roped in voluntary and social organisations to get the city rid of polythene that a pace was set for a healthier environment. What started as a government programme soon became a social campaign and went on track to produce positive results. Even as the drive is still in its infancy in several other districts of Haryana, Panipat appears to be way ahead in restricting the use of polythene carry bags. Being a non-biodegradable product, polythene keeps on polluting the surroundings for years and years together. It makes soil infertile and unfit for other uses. It releases harmful toxins into the air and restricts the seepage of water and prevents the recharging of groundwater leading to a decline in the water table. Besides, by blocking the drainage system, it also puts the city in the danger of floods during heavy rains. Deputy commissioner Vijay Singh Dahiya, who was instrumental in launching the drive in Panipat, said the only way to fight this pollutant was by reshaping the public perception regarding its use and impact on the environment. The drive received an overwhelming response from various quarters with a number of organisations, including the Indian Medical Association and Indian Oil Corporation, owners of local shopping malls and several NGOs working in the field of environmental protection joining hands with the administration. They went on to generate awareness among the city residents against the ill effects of using polythene carry bags. The local civic body has also organised awareness rallies. Besides, the administration got lakhs of jute bags made that were distributed free of cost among locals to thwart the use of plastic carry bags. Though a ban on the use of polythene is already in force in the district under the Haryana Non-Biodegradable Control Act and the Environment Act, it is the active participation of the residents that is restricting its use. Under the law, hefty fines of up to Rs 50,000 for manufacturers, Rs 2,500-5,000 for shopkeepers handing out these bags and Rs 250-500 for buyers who litter public places with them can be imposed. The DC said law alone could not have pushed the drive. Officials of the district administration and representatives of the voluntary organisations went from door to door to generate awareness that increased the chances of the drive becoming a success. The endeavor of the locals in fighting the pollutant has also received acclaim from the Rotary International. Besides, some local residents have also come up with environmental clubs.