Punjab is taking a big step for the environment. Rawalpindi will become the first plastic-free district starting from June 2026. The Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) announced this plan to ban single-use plastics and reduce pollution.
Director General of Punjab EPA, Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, shared the news in a press conference. He said the government will introduce the ban in phases across all district headquarters. Rawalpindi is leading the way. The goal is to create plastic-free zones in markets and busy shopping areas. Officials are working with businesses to make the change smooth.
Single-use plastic bags, especially thin ones below 75 microns, cause major harm. They stay in the environment for many years, block drains, and damage soil and water. The EPA is enforcing strict rules with fines and other actions against violators. At the same time, they are promoting thicker, eco-friendly plastic bags and other green alternatives.
This campaign is part of a bigger effort linked to World Environment Day on June 5. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz supports the vision of a cleaner Punjab. Success depends on public help. People, shopkeepers, and markets must switch to better options like cloth bags and reusable items.
The initiative shows Punjab’s strong commitment to protecting nature. If it works well in Rawalpindi, it will expand to other major cities.
