ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad district administration and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have intensified enforcement against illegal plastic bags, with 583 arrests made during a 20-day crackdown aimed at making the federal capital plastic-free.
According to Islamabad EPA spokesperson Dr. Zigham Abbas, enforcement teams conducted 4,194 inspections, confiscated 3,202 kilograms of plastic bags and sealed 43 shops during the campaign.
Authorities also sealed an illegal polythene bag manufacturing factory and imposed a fine of Rs200,000 for violating environmental regulations.
The ongoing operation is part of efforts to curb the use, sale and production of prohibited plastic bags and reduce plastic pollution across Islamabad.
Plastic Pollution Poses Risks to Wildlife and Human Health
Plastic waste is a major environmental concern because it can contaminate land and waterways, threaten aquatic life and contribute to risks to human health. Plastic bags that enter drainage systems and natural habitats can also worsen waste management problems and damage ecosystems.
Environmental authorities have urged businesses and the public to comply with plastic regulations and adopt environmentally friendly alternatives to single-use plastic bags.
The continued inspections and enforcement measures aim to improve compliance and support the government’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution in the capital.
