Sindh bans plastic bag usage across province

KARACHI: The Sindh government has made a strong move in terms of environmental conservation by implementing a province-wide ban on the production, sale, and use of plastic bags, including in Karachi.

No specific date was stated in the most recent notification for when the ban would begin; however, the province has imposed a similar ban previously.

The province published a notification on September 27, 2019, that the ban was to commence officially on October 1, 2019. The ban is primarily focused on tackling pollution, as plastic bags can contribute to marine pollution and stuck sewage systems.

The Sindh Environment Department has highlighted that any violations of the polythene bag ban will result in punishment under applicable laws, with the initiation of legal action against offenders, including potential arrest and punishment.

The ban is intended to maintain a cleaner and more sustainable environment, consistent with the government’s mandate to protect the environment. In addition, the ban is consistent with the Sindh Environment Protection Act, 2014, which provides a ban on the manufacture, sale, and use of all non-biodegradable plastic products.