By Hina Kiyani
RAWALPINDI: The Environment Protection Agency Punjab has intensified its crackdown against single-use plastic bags in Rawalpindi, expanding enforcement operations as part of efforts to gradually turn the city into a plastic-free zone.
Addressing a press conference at Raja Bazaar and Naswari Bazaar along with President Rawalpindi Plastic Association Sheikh Ameen, Deputy Director Environment Protection Rawalpindi Sadia Batool said a complete ban had been imposed on plastic bags weighing less than 75 microns across the province.
She said strict implementation of the law was underway, adding that lightweight plastic bags caused blockage of sewerage systems, environmental pollution and drainage issues, creating serious urban challenges.
She stressed that cooperation of traders and citizens was essential to make Rawalpindi the first single-use plastic-free zone.
Sadia Batool said that during the past one month, several thousands kilograms of plastic bags below the prescribed weight had been confiscated, while fines were imposed on violators and multiple shops sealed.
She said fines ranging from Rs. 5,000.0 to Rs. 20,000.0 were imposed on first violation, which could increase up to Rs. 50,000.0 in case of repeat offences.
She added that obtaining a licence had been made mandatory for those involved in plastic-related businesses, with a fee of Rs. 100,000.0 for new licences and Rs. 50,000.0 for renewal, while strict action was being taken against unlicensed operations.
Environmental experts said single-use plastic bags posed serious risks to land and aquatic life as they did not decompose easily and contributed to long-term pollution.
They added that such bags were a major cause of blockage in drains and sewerage lines, often leading to urban flooding.
Meanwhile, trader representatives supported the government’s initiative and assured cooperation in promoting eco-friendly alternatives such as cloth and paper bags.
The Environment Protection Agency also urged citizens to avoid use of plastic bags and adopt environmentally friendly practices to ensure a clean and healthy city.
