According to the CEA, legal action would be instituted against those who produce, store and sell polythene less than 20 microns from next month.

CEA has given a grace period up to January 31. Thereafter Authority will implement this law strictly island wide. Authority has been carrying out raids from January 1, and the offenders were made aware of the law and the possible alternatives. Authority did not take legal action against them as they needed sufficient time to adjust.

However from February 1, the offenders will be subject to a fine of not more than Rs 10,000 and/or a jail sentence of not more than two years.