The Sindh government has announced a province-wide ban on the manufacturing, distribution, and use of plastic bags, set to take effect on June 15. This ban will cover Karachi and all other districts of Sindh.
A notification issued by the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Coastal Development outlines that non-degradable, oxo-degradable, black, and recycled plastic bags will be prohibited. Only eco-friendly alternatives will be allowed in the market.
Environment Secretary Agha Shah Nawaz emphasized that a strict zero-tolerance approach will be adopted. Plastic bags are a major contributor to environmental degradation. This decision is not symbolic—it will be fully enforced,” he stated.
Authorities have confirmed that legal action will be taken against violators to ensure full compliance across the province.
Previously, on World Plastic Bag Free Day, Senator Sherry Rehman, Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change, highlighted the alarming rate of plastic bag consumption in Pakistan, estimated at 55 billion annually, with usage increasing by about 15% each year.
She urged citizens to reconsider the environmental consequences of polythene use, noting that plastic bags are a key source of urban pollution, causing water blockage, land littering, and harm to humans, wildlife, and aquatic life.
“Polythene bags can take centuries to decompose. Their widespread use poses serious threats to both public health and the environment, especially in cities struggling with waste management,” she warned.
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