A complete ban on manufacture, sale, storage and use of plastic bags with stiff penalty against violators will come into effect in the national capital from today.

Delhi government has imposed the ban as per the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Under the Act violators could face imprisonment up to five years and fine of up to one lakh rupees or both.

Delhi Chief Secretary P. K Tripathi asked all the concerned agencies including civic bodies, NDMC and Delhi Pollution Control Committee to implement the ban.

As per the notification, no person including shopkeepers, vendors, wholesalers, retailers and hawkers will be allowed to sell, store or use plastic carry bags for supply of any goods