Following the province-wide ban on plastic bags, the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) has significantly increased its enforcement efforts across the province. To date, SEPA has inspected 657 markets, wholesale centers, and shopping malls across various divisions, representing a strong commitment to implementing the new regulation.

These extensive inspections include 219 markets in Karachi, 96 in Sukkur, 93 in Shaheed Benazirabad, 165 in Hyderabad, 63 in Mirpurkhas, and 21 in Larkana. Murad Waheed, spokesperson for the Environment Department, stated that while immediate notices and warnings were issued where violations were found, the majority of establishments showed compliance with the law. Notably, large shopping malls, chain stores, and major retailers have rapidly adopted the use of cloth bags, signaling a positive shift in public awareness and behavior.

Agha Shah Nawaz Khan, Secretary of Environment, Climate Change, and Coastal Development, emphasized that the Sindh government prioritizes environmental protection. He praised the strong cooperation from the public, traders, wholesalers, and mall owners in the ongoing campaign against plastic pollution. “This law is not merely a ban,” he stated, “but a crucial step towards providing a better, cleaner, and healthier environment for future generations.”

He further warned that any violations will not be tolerated, and offenders could face not only fines but also arrest. Agha Shahnawaz clarified that the Environment Department is working closely with local governments, municipal corporations, mayors, district administrations, and law enforcement agencies to ensure comprehensive enforcement.

Agha Shah Nawaz Khan also appealed to citizens to adopt environmentally friendly practices and utilize alternatives instead of plastic ones. He stressed that this change is not temporary but permanent, necessitating continuous public awareness campaigns and vigilant monitoring of implementation. The intensified actions by SEPA highlight the government’s resolve to create a greener Sindh and combat the pervasive issue of plastic pollution.