Strict supervision on polythene shopping bags begins Nov 1

Action will also be taken against the polythene manufacturers, Advisor Rizwana says

Environment Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said a rigorous monitoring campaign will be launched to stop the use of polythene shopping bags starting on the first day of November.

The advisor came up with the remarks at a meeting in the Ministry of Textiles and Jute at the Secretariat on Sunday.

The implementation of the Mandatory Jute Packaging Act 2010 and measures to encourage people to use jute bags instead of polythene were discussed at the event.

Rizwana said, “Stern monitoring will be carried out to stop the use of polythene shopping bags starting Nov 1. Action will also be taken against the polythene manufacturers.

"Only the polythene shopping bags are being barred. Legal action will be taken if any super shop provides such bags."

The advisor said, “If people stop using polythene, production will also be closed. People should be made aware of this. Action will be taken if anyone carelessly breaches the rules.”

"An initiative will be taken so that people can understand the harmful effects of the product and leave using it."

Advisor to the ministries of Textiles and Shipping M Sakhawat Hussain said, "The use of jute bags should be increased. Necessary steps will be taken to ensure an adequate supply of jute bags. If necessary, the export of raw jute will be suspended."