Lahore (Lord Media): Punjab has imposed a ban on charging extra fees for plastic shopping bags. Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, Director General of the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), stated that some businesses were charging additional amounts for plastic bags, which will now be stopped. He advised that if any business continues to charge extra, citizens can file complaints via the EPA helpline at 1373.
According to the DG EPA, violators of this directive could face fines ranging from 5,000 to 50,000 rupees. In cases of severe violations, businesses may be sealed, and FIRs could be filed.
Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh clarified that the ban applies only to plastic shopping bags, while additional charges can be levied for bags made from cloth or other eco-friendly materials.
He emphasized that the aim of this initiative is to make Punjab free from single-use plastics, reduce plastic usage, and ensure environmental protection.
