- The Punjab government plans eco-friendly initiatives for Earth Day, focusing on reducing plastic bag usage.
- Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announces a ban on plastic bags starting June 5, 2024.
- Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb highlights the health risks associated with plastic pollution.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Punjab plans to enforce a comprehensive ban on plastic bags starting June 5, 2024. This decision, backed by Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb during a recent review meeting chaired by the CM, reflects the government's commitment to tackling the health risks posed by plastic pollution.
The 'No to Plastic' campaign aims to raise public awareness about the serious health hazards associated with plastic waste. Minister Aurangzeb stressed the urgent need to halt the production, distribution, and use of polythene bags due to their detrimental impact on the environment and contribution to respiratory illnesses and other serious health conditions.
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Punjab Sets Official Date for Plastic Bags Ban![/caption]
To ensure the ban's effective implementation, department heads and deputy commissioners will enforce stringent measures in their respective areas. Educational institutions will also play a vital role by organizing lectures and workshops to educate people about the health risks linked to plastic pollution.
A dedicated awareness campaign will kick off on Earth Day, utilizing various media channels to reach a wide audience. Minister Aurangzeb urged citizens to opt for cloth and paper bags as alternatives to plastic, highlighting their role in disease prevention.
Businesses, including shopping centers, eateries, and bakeries, are encouraged to join the campaign by phasing out plastic bags and containers for food and beverages. The minister emphasized the media's role in spreading awareness about environmental and health issues, stressing the need for collaboration between citizens and the media for the campaign's success.
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Minister Maryam Aurangzeb reiterated the CM's directive and emphasized the June 5 deadline for the complete ban on plastic bag usage, underscoring the government's commitment to public health and environmental protection.
In a related development, authorities have disbursed over Rs 13.6 million to applicants seeking family pensions and other entitlements, following orders from Ombudsman Punjab Maj. (retd.) Azam Suleman Khan. Thirteen applicants from various districts sought assistance from the Ombudsman's office to obtain their rightful dues from relevant departments.
