Mumbai, Mar 29 (KNN) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said that a cabinet-sub committee will be directed in the state to engage with plastic industry stake-holders to find a working solution to the concerns raised by plastic manufacturers amid ban.

Fearing closure of 4,000 odd units, plastic manufacturers have urged the state government to review its blanket ban on multiple plastic products.

Fadnavis on Wednesday rejected the demand for revoking the ban on plastic items, which came into effect from 18 March.

He said the government was willing to address genuine concerns of the plastic manufacturing industry.

The cabinet sub-committee, referred by the CM, will be headed by Environment Minister Ramdas Kadam.

Industry and some MLAs have been demanding to revoke plastic ban imposed on almost all plastic carry bags and single-use plastic, such as disposable plates and cutlery, food packaging and other items.

The government has proposed fines of Rs 5,000, Rs 10,000 and Rs 25,000 for the first three offences, with the maximum punishment for violation of the ban being a three-month jail term.

Meanwhile, All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) said the decision will not only hurt the plastic industry but will also affect the state’s economy. Suppliers to user industries such as beverages, garment, packaging, dairy etc will all be affected as no alternatives are viable vis-à-vis plastic packaging.