Maharashtra to Ban Plastic Flowers; Civic Bodies to Get Enforcement Powers

The state government plans to issue special guidelines under the plastic ban to curb artificial flowers, empowering municipal corporations to take strict action against violators.

Mumbai | March 19, 2026: In a move aimed at protecting the environment and supporting farmers, the Maharashtra government has announced plans to impose a ban on plastic flowers, citing their growing use and negative impact on the natural flower industry.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the Legislative Council that special guidelines will be issued under the existing plastic ban framework to restrict the use of artificial flowers. He added that municipal corporations across the state will be given powers to take action against violators.

The decision comes amid concerns that the widespread use of plastic flowers during festivals, events and ceremonies is harming both the environment and the livelihood of farmers engaged in natural flower cultivation. Despite the existing plastic ban, such decorative items continue to be used extensively.

Raising the issue in the House, legislators highlighted the increasing visibility of plastic flowers in markets and commercial areas, including parts of Mumbai. Concerns were also expressed about their environmental impact, particularly their non-biodegradable nature.

Responding to the concerns, the Chief Minister stated that strict action will be taken not only against sellers but also against users such as decorators and banquet halls. Notices will be issued to establishments found using plastic flowers, and penalties will be imposed in case of violations.

Environment Minister Pankaj Munde noted that the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board had already issued a circular on August 29, 2025, advising against the use of artificial flowers.

Officials also shared enforcement data, indicating that between April 2025 and January 2026, authorities inspected over 1.24 lakh establishments across the state. Action was taken against 3,390 establishments, leading to the seizure of 67.54 metric tonnes of plastic and recovery of ₹1.55 crore in fines.

The government is now working on setting up a dedicated enforcement mechanism to ensure effective implementation of the proposed ban. Authorities believe that stricter monitoring and clear guidelines will help curb violations and promote the use of eco-friendly alternatives.

Experts say the move could benefit farmers who rely on the cultivation and sale of natural flowers, while also reducing plastic waste generated during large-scale events and celebrations.

With the proposed ban and enhanced enforcement powers for civic bodies, the state aims to strengthen its plastic waste management efforts and promote sustainable practices across sectors.

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