Dhaka:The government has initiated intensified mobile court operations and strict legal actions to curb the production, transportation, marketing, and use of banned polythene bags across the country. Despite a longstanding prohibition, the use of these bags is resurging in markets.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, authorities are also focusing on shutting down illegal polythene manufacturing factories and enhancing monitoring efforts to eliminate the use of non-biodegradable bags in fresh markets. This move comes amid growing concerns over environmental pollution, clogged drainage systems, and threats to marine biodiversity, particularly around Saint Martin's Island, the only coral island in Bangladesh.
Sabrin Sultana, Deputy Director of the Department of Environment, stated that nationwide mobile court operations and strict enforcement measures are being strengthened to prevent the resurgence of banned polythene. "These efforts to protect the environment will continue vigorously," she said.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and other relevant agencies have been instructed to effectively carry out responsibilities to address the problem. Experts have warned that improper disposal of polythene and plastic waste degrades soil and water quality, blocks drains, and contributes to severe urban waterlogging. Microplastics can enter the human body through fish and agricultural products, posing serious health risks.
Professor Tanvir Ahmed from the Department of Civil Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology emphasized the need for stronger action by the Department of Environment and improved waste collection by local government bodies. He highlighted that polythene bags and plastic bottles break down into tiny particles that persist in the environment, threatening wildlife and releasing harmful gases when burned.
Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik (SHUJAN) Secretary, Badiul Alam Majumder, suggested the availability of effective alternatives to polythene, such as reusable bags made of cloth or jute, and reusable glass or stainless-steel bottles.
A visit to several Dhaka markets revealed that vendors still use polythene bags to sell various goods, with sellers citing a lack of suitable alternatives and customers finding polythene cheap and convenient.
Bangladesh banned the production, marketing, and sale of polythene bags on March 1, 2002, under a law introduced by the four-party alliance government led by then Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
Plastic pollution is a serious concern for Saint Martin's Island, where waste accumulates along beaches and in marine waters. Officials report that plastic waste reaches the island through ocean currents from the Naaf River estuary, Teknaf, and nearby coastal areas, as well as from fishing boats, ships, tourists, and residents. Measures are being implemented to protect the island's ecosystem, including bans on carrying polythene, using single-use plastic products, and disturbing marine wildlife.
Environmentalists and residents have found discarded packaging with foreign-language writing, suggesting cross-border marine pollution. Coordinated regional efforts, alongside stronger domestic enforcement and effective waste management, are seen as essential to protect the coastal and marine environment.