Plastic bags under 75 microns to be confiscated in Rawalpindi from December 10

RAWALPINDI: Rawalpindi is gearing up for a major crackdown on plastic bags under 75 microns, set to start on December 10. Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema has instructed the Environment Department to take action and ensure the ban is enforced.

According to Dawn, Dr Cheema highlighted the need for spreading awareness before the deadline. He said the public and businesses need to understand the harm caused by plastic bags and be offered better alternatives like reusable cloth bags and eco-friendly cutlery made of paper, steel, or wood.

“This isn’t just about protecting the environment; it’s about public health too,” Dr Cheema stressed, adding that encouraging local production of alternatives could spark new economic activity.

To ensure compliance, district price control magistrates will be equipped with tools to measure the thickness of plastic bags. Any bags below 75 microns will be seized from December 10 onwards.

The Environment Department, following the DC’s orders, has issued warnings to manufacturers and sellers to stop producing or selling plastic bags below the required thickness. Deputy Director of Environment Maria Safir confirmed that anyone caught violating the ban will face fines between Rs5,000 and Rs50,000, and their materials could be confiscated.

In a bid to get everyone on board, the department has held meetings with plastic bag producers, sellers, and restaurant owners. The associations have been asked to commit to the new regulations, with a clear warning: failure to comply will lead to serious legal consequences.

Read next: Nepra approves discount on extra power usage for XDISCOS, K-Electric consumers