TAXILA: The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency’s (Pak-EPA) Attock chapter sealed two shops and confiscated 137kg of polythene bags on Tuesday.

Briefing newsmen, a Pak-EPA official said the crackdown was launched against wholesale dealers of polythene bags after amendments to the Production and Consumption of Single-Use Plastic Product Regulations 2023.

She said anti-plastic squads of the department were inspecting food outlets, markets and shops to enforce the ban.

“Vendors are being directed to switch to eco-friendly alternatives as part of the crackdown,” the official told reporters.

She said fines ranging between Rs5,000 and Rs50,000 would be imposed on violators if notices go unheeded.

The premises where banned single-use plastic was found would be sealed, and the material would be confiscated.

She revealed that according to the revised regulations, plastic shopping bags less than 75 microns will be completely banned from being manufactured, stored, purchased, sold and used.

The official said it was part of the Pak-EPA’s broader initiative to promote sustainable practices and mitigate plastic pollution.

She added that the department has already introduced online registration for plastic producers, suppliers, collectors and recyclers.

“This initiative is a landmark step by the Punjab government, aiming to centralise data for the plastic industry. Through registration, the ‘supply side’ of plastic will transition from the informal economy into a formal economic framework”, she noted. The official also said this measure will not only address environmental pollution but also promote transparency.

She said the district administration’s efforts to curb plastic pollution aimed to reduce the harm plastic does to marine ecosystems and wildlife.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, she said: “This effort is not just about environmental protection but also about ensuring a clean and healthy future for coming generations.”

The official urged citizens to actively participate in the campaign and adopt eco-friendly products instead of plastic bags.

Published in Dawn, January 29th, 2025