Punjab is taking a significant step towards environmental protection with the enforcement of a ban on plastic bags starting June 5. Senior Provincial Minister Mariyum Aurangzeb announced that all preparations have been finalized to eliminate the production, distribution, and sale of illegal plastic bags across the province.
The campaign aims to protect the public from diseases linked to plastic use, such as cancer and other serious health issues. The use of single-use plastics has been identified as a major contributor to environmental pollution. In response, authorities will crack down on factories producing illegal plastic products.
From June 5, hotels, restaurants, and other food establishments will be prohibited from serving food in plastic bags. Instead, the government is promoting the use of cotton bags and other environmentally-friendly alternatives.
Minister Aurangzeb emphasized that legal action will be taken against those who violate this prohibition, with heavy fines imposed on offending businesses. According to the new regulations, the use of polythene bags less than 75 microns in thickness and single-use plastic utensils is now completely banned.
This initiative marks a crucial step in Punjab’s efforts to combat environmental pollution and protect public health, setting a precedent for other regions to follow.
