In order to check plastic menace in Goa, the state government is contemplating to make throwing of plastic at roadsides and beaches a cognisable offence, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.

Parrikar told the Legislative Assembly that the government is thinking to make throwing of plastic a cognisable offence by December this year and to punish the offender with a severe penalty.

There will be a serious implementation of anti-plastic law in the state, he said while responding to a responding to a question raised by Independent MLA Vijay Sardesai.

State Forest and Environment Minister Alina Saldanha said the government intends to phase out use of plastic for domestic use including carry bags, sachets and wrappers.

"The measures will take some time for implementation, which will be undertaken in a phased manner by involving all stake holders and by conducting appropriate sensitisation and awareness programmes for general public and tourists," she said.

In August, 2002, the government prohibited carrying, use and sale of non-biodegradable PET bottles and plastic carry bags in certain Coastal Regulation Zones in Panaji and neighbouring Caranzalem and Dona Paula, while for other beach areas in Goa, the matter would be taken up in consultation with all stakeholders, Alina said.