Dhaka: Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury today called for collective action against the banned use of polythene, urging authorities to enforce existing laws effectively to curb its usage. "The law should not just remain on the books, its effective implementation must be ensured in the field to stop the use of banned polythene," he emphasized while distributing anti-polythene leaflets in the Mohammadpur Krishi Market area.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the home adviser announced that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to intensify the anti-polythene campaign. Intelligence operations are also underway to hold unscrupulous traders accountable. Despite the 2002 ban on the production, marketing, and use of polythene bags due to environmental and public health concerns, its usage persists. Recently, the use of polythene has surged at an alarming rate, with some traders secretly manufacturing and distributing the banned material.
Jahangir highlighted that the environment and public health are increasingly threatened by polythene usage, which disrupts environmental balance. He stressed that long-lasting and effective change requires public awareness. Director General of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Additional IGP AKM Shahidur Rahman was present during the event.
The home adviser elaborated on the detrimental effects of polythene, which remains in the environment for centuries, reducing soil fertility, obstructing water flow, and causing severe urban waterlogging. He also noted its threat to biodiversity. To combat this, law enforcement and the Department of Environment have initiated various protective activities, including nationwide leaflet distribution to promote eco-friendly alternatives.
Leaflets have been distributed in multiple locations, including Karwan Bazar, Gulshan, Mirpur, and other areas. Offenders face penalties through mobile courts. Information on environmentally friendly substitutes and legal repercussions for violations is being disseminated.
Jahangir asserted the potential of media involvement in spreading awareness. "The programme will be successful if we can involve the people in preventing the production, marketing and using of illegal polythene to build a long-term and environment friendly society," he stated. He assured that law enforcement agencies would maintain regular patrols and intelligence activities to suppress criminal activities and uphold law and order.