Bihar Govt bans use of plastic bags, sheets

Patna: The Bihar Government on Friday announced a ban on use of plastic bags and sheets in urban areas of the state and penalties for violations from December 23 with a few exceptions. The ban would be effective in the rural areas from January 14. The use of plastic bags with more than 50 micron thickness would be allowed for biomedical, dairy and plantation purposes.

The government would impose penalties ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 500 on households for violation. Any violations at commercial hubs, parks and public place would attract a fine ranging between Rs 1,000-Rs 5,000. OC

13 trapped in flooded Meghalaya mine

Lumthari: Thirteen persons remained trapped in a flooded illegal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia hills district for a second day on Friday, as efforts to pump out water failed to yield results. After the incident came to light on Thursday morning, a pump was pressed into service around 4 pm, with a break every three hours, officials said. Two NDRF, comprising 60 personnel, arrived here on Friday morning, while 12 personnel from the SDRF were already at the site, they said. PTI