“We Don’t Have Proper GR Books, So HDF Receipt Books Are Being Used”: Administrative Officer, GMC Baramulla
UMAR RASHID
Baramulla, June 4:
The authorities of Government Medical College Baramulla on thursday conducted a special enforcement drive against the use of banned single-use plastic and polythene within the college and hospital premises, imposing fines on several violators.
During the drive, a number of shopkeepers and vendors were found using prohibited plastic items, following which fines amounting to ₹2,500 were collected from the violators.
However, instead of issuing receipts through regular General Receipt (GR) books, the authorities used HDF patient receipt books for the collection of fines.
When contacted, the Administrative Officer of GMC Baramulla confirmed the use of HDF receipt books and stated that proper GR books were presently unavailable.
“We don’t have proper GR books, so HDF receipt books are being used,” the officer said, adding that the arrangement was adopted as a temporary measure to continue enforcement and documentation during the drive.
The action was taken in compliance with a circular issued by the Office of the Principal, GMC Baramulla, regarding the enforcement of the Jammu and Kashmir Non-Biodegradable Material (Management, Handling and Disposal) Act, 2007, and Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.
According to the circular, all officials, vendors, canteen operators, pharmacists, shopkeepers, visitors and quarter residents have been directed to strictly refrain from the stocking, distribution, sale, purchase and use of banned single-use plastic items within and around the premises of Government Medical College and its associated hospital.
The circular specifically prohibits the use of disposable plastic plates, cups, bowls, tumblers, spoons, forks and knives. It also bans carry bags below the prescribed thickness, non-woven plastic bags below 60 GSM, plastic sheets below 50 microns, plastic straws, stirrers, plastic flags, PVC banners below 100 microns, plastic sticks used in ear buds, balloons, candy and ice cream, as well as various plastic packaging materials.
The administration has further directed all stakeholders to promote the use of eco-friendly and biodegradable alternatives in place of single-use plastic products.
The circular warns that any violation of the instructions shall invite appropriate disciplinary action and fines as applicable under the law.
The drive is part of GMC Baramulla’s ongoing efforts to ensure environmental compliance, reduce plastic pollution and maintain cleanliness within the healthcare institution and its surrounding areas.