Punjab has banned all shops and businesses from charging customers separately for plastic shopping bags as part of its campaign to reduce single-use plastic and protect the environment.
Director General of the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, said some businesses were selling plastic shopping bags carrying their own branding to customers and even earning profits by charging extra for them. He said this practice will no longer be allowed.
Consumers who are asked to pay separately for plastic shopping bags can lodge complaints through the Punjab EPA helpline 1373, he added.
According to the DG EPA, businesses violating the directive may face fines ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 50,000. In cases of serious violations, authorities may also seal business premises and register an FIR against the offenders.
Dr. Sheikh clarified that the ban applies only to plastic shopping bags. Businesses may still charge customers for bags made from cloth or other environmentally friendly materials.
He said the measure is aimed at eliminating single-use plastics across Punjab, reducing plastic waste, and strengthening environmental protection efforts.
