LAHORE: The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has intensified its enforcement drive against banned single-use plastic, inspecting 179 locations, issuing 17 notices and sealing three premises in action against violations of plastic regulations.
During the campaign, officials seized 1,602 kilograms of plastic and imposed fines totalling PKR 100,000, according to figures released by the agency.
The enforcement drive reflects the Punjab EPA’s stated zero-tolerance policy against the manufacturing, sale and use of plastic products with a thickness of less than 75 microns, which are prohibited under the applicable regulations.
Single-use plastic contributes to environmental pollution when improperly discarded, clogging drainage systems and contaminating waterways and natural habitats. Plastic waste can also persist in the environment for long periods, breaking down into smaller particles that may affect wildlife and ecosystems.
The agency has urged businesses, manufacturers, retailers and the public to comply with plastic restrictions and avoid the use and distribution of banned products.
Citizens have been encouraged to report violations by calling the environmental complaint helpline 1373, enabling authorities to respond to suspected breaches of the regulations.
The campaign is part of efforts to improve compliance with plastic-control measures and reduce the environmental burden of plastic waste across Punjab.
