KARACHI: Sindh government has decided to impose a complete ban on the production, sale, and use of plastic bags across the province, including Karachi.

According to the Sindh Environment Department, the ban will be officially enforced after approval from the provincial cabinet on April 15. Once implemented, anyone found violating the ban will face legal action. This includes fines, arrest, and even prosecution, the department warned. Officials say plastic bags are one of the main causes of pollution as they block sewage lines, pollute the ocean, and harm marine and wildlife. The department stressed that stopping their use is essential for a cleaner and healthier Sindh.

On World Plastic Bag Free Day, Senator Sherry Rehman, Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change, also highlighted the dangers of plastic. She said Pakistan uses around 55 billion plastic bags every year, with usage increasing by 15% annually. Senator Rehman said single-use plastic bags cause serious problems like clogged drains, littered streets, and polluted water. They also harm animals and even human health.

“Polythene bags take hundreds of years to break down,” she said, warning that their buildup is a growing threat in both small towns and large cities. She urged Pakistanis to become more aware of the damage plastic causes and to switch to safer, reusable alternatives.