The days of mere announcements regarding the plastic bag ban are over – now comes strict enforcement. This was the clear message delivered by Secretary of Environment, Climate Change & Coastal Development, Agha Shah Nawaz Khan, during a high-level meeting with a delegation of the All Karachi Plastic Bag Manufacturers & Dealers Association on Wednesday.
The meeting, held at the Secretary’s office, focused on comprehensive implementation of the plastic bag ban across Sindh. “The ban is in place – now it’s time for action,” said Secretary Shah Nawaz. 220;Stakeholder cooperation is essential; the government cannot clap with one hand. There may be some temporary impact on businesses, but we must adopt sustainable practices that do not harm the environment,” he emphasized, urging the shift towards cloth bags and other eco-friendly alternatives.
The meeting was also attended by SEPA Director General Waqar Hussain Phulpoto and Director Natural Resources Imran Sabir.
Ahmed Ali, head of the Association delegation, voiced strong reservations, stating that complete bans are rare even globally. “Developed nations regulate through legislation and discourage excessive use by pricing plastic bags. Clearing stock in just two months is not feasible. The industry fears major losses. Police make no distinction between different types of plastic bags and take action indiscriminately. This must be addressed,” he stressed.
In response, Secretary Shah Nawaz assured that instructions would be issued to police, and district-level committees would be formed to maintain regular communication and cooperation with stakeholders.
“No leniency will be shown after June 15,” warned the Secretary. “The crackdown will begin with large commercial markets where supply and demand are highest.” He further promised industry visits next week, and said alternative solutions would be explored on scientific grounds through consultation.
“The government is here to support, not to harm businesses,” he clarified. “Mayors of Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur, the Home Secretary, and IG Sindh will be taken into confidence. A seminar will also be organized, bringing all stakeholders together.”
Reaffirming the government’s firm stance, the Secretary concluded: “Breaking the law will not be tolerated. However, within legal limits, every possible facilitation will be extended to the industry.”
