Namakkal district administration intensifies plastic ban in Kolli Hills

Plastic items dumped on the roadside at Kolli Hills in Namakkal district. People and businesses found using single-use plastic items in Kolli Hills will now be fined, the Namakkal district administration announced.A part of the Eastern Ghats, the Kolli Hills rises at an elevation of 1,200 meters above mean sea level and is 45 km away from Namakkal Town. It is known for its medicinal plants.Tourist spots like Arapaleeswarar Temple, Horticulture Farm, Herbal Farm, Agaya Gangai waterfalls, boat house, Periyasamy Temple, Ettukkaiamman Temple, viewpoints in Selur, Binnam, Sirumalai, and Seekuparai, and pineapple farm attract thousands of visitors, especially during summer.However, many tourists and locals are dumping single-use plastic items on the roadside, damaging the delicate environment of the hills, hence the fine.As per Namakkal District Gazette no. 29 dated September 28, 2026, in order to prevent environmental pollution and public health hazards in the areas under Kolli Hills Panchayat Union, the ban on the use and sale of all single-use plastic products in the areas under Kolli Hills Panchayat Union will be strictly enforced from October 2.Namakkal District Collector L. Madhubalan said that action will be taken against those who violate this and a fine will be collected.Storage, distribution, and sale of single-use plastic products will attract a fine of ₹25,000 for the first time, ₹50,000 for the second time, and ₹1 lakh for the third time.Use and distribution of single-use plastic items at shopping malls and textile stores will attract a fine of ₹10,000 for the first time, ₹15,000 for the second time, and ₹25,000 for the third time.For grocery shops, medical stores, and medium-sized commercial establishments, the first time fine is ₹1,000, the second time ₹2,000, and the third time ₹5,000.For small-scale vendors, the first time fine is ₹100, the second time ₹200 and the third time ₹500, the District Collector added.Stating that steps have been taken to monitor and seize single-use plastic bags and plastic items at checkposts, Mr. Madhubalan said that tourists coming to Kolli Hills should cooperate with the district administration and avoid single-use plastic items. Published - October 01, 2026 06:43 pm IST