Tihar plastic flower and garland ban enforced in Badimalika and Ilam

Ahead of Tihar, Badimalika Municipality in Bajura and Ilam district have banned the sale of plastic flowers and garlands.

Badimalika Municipality issued a notice saying plastic flowers, garlands and similar decorative items cannot be sold within the municipal area.

The municipality has urged traders and the public to prioritise locally grown natural flowers.

According to the municipality, the move is aimed at boosting local production, protecting the environment and reducing plastic use.

The municipality has warned that goods will be confiscated if plastic or low-quality flower garlands are sold in defiance of the order.

Deputy mayor Nandakumari Thapa said imported plastic items were being banned to encourage local farmers to take up flower farming.

In Ilam, the District Administration Office has banned the storage and sale of plastic flower bouquets and garlands in shops and markets, citing the Environment Protection Act, 2076 BS.

The administration has warned that importing, storing or selling such items will result in legal action.

The administration noted that the Department of Environment had already banned the production, import, storage and sale of plastic flower bouquets nationwide as of Saun 9, 2079 BS.

The administration has also requested local levels in the district to monitor compliance in line with the act and the department's notice.

Ilam Municipality has also issued a separate notice urging that such items not be produced, imported, stored or sold.