Visakhapatnam: Emphasising that the use of single-use plastic items is harmful to environment and public health, GVMC west zone zonal commissioner B Hemavathi urged owners of commercial establishments and traders to completely discontinue the use of plastic carry bags, plastic cups, and other banned plastic products and adopt eco-friendly alternatives instead.

On Monday, she conducted an awareness programme for traders and small vendors near Gopalapatnam Railway Station.

During the programme, traders were educated about the adverse effects of single-use plastics on the environment and public health.

They were advised to replace plastic carry bags, plastic cups, and other prohibited plastic products with environmentally friendly alternatives such as cloth bags, paper bags and biodegradable products.

The zonal commissioner appealed to traders to act responsibly in reducing plastic pollution and contribute towards maintaining a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

She emphasised that traders, consumers and citizens must work collectively to build a plastic-free society and create greater awareness on the issue.

She also called upon citizens to extend their complete support in ensuring that Visakhapatnam emerges as one of the cleanest cities in the country in 'Swachh Survekshan 2025-26'.