The Tawang district administration has announced a ban on single-use PET (polyethylene terephthalate) drinking water bottles with a capacity of less than two litres as part of efforts to reduce plastic waste and encourage environmentally sustainable practices. The order, issued by Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, will come into effect from July 1 and will apply across the district. Under the new directive, the sale, distribution and supply of single-use plastic drinking water bottles below the two-litre capacity limit will no longer be permitted.
The ban will cover government offices, educational institutions, commercial establishments, hotels, restaurants, shops, vendors, event organisers and the general public. The district administration said the measure has been introduced to curb the growing problem of plastic waste and promote responsible consumption habits. To ensure a smooth transition, the administration has instructed government departments, educational institutions, event organisers, hotels, restaurants and other establishments to adopt alternative arrangements for drinking water. These alternatives include water dispensers, refill stations, water filtration systems and larger-capacity water containers that can help reduce the use of disposable plastic bottles. Officials said the initiative is aimed at encouraging people to shift towards reusable and environmentally friendly options while reducing the amount of plastic waste generated in the district.
The order also warned that strict monitoring measures will be put in place to ensure compliance. Surprise inspections will be carried out by officials from the district administration and concerned departments after the ban comes into force. According to the notification, violations of the order may invite action under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, the Arunachal Pradesh Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Bye-laws, 2023, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Such action may include the seizure of prohibited items and the imposition of penalties as prescribed under the law.
