The Punjab government has announced a new rule ending Punjab plastic bag charges at shops and commercial outlets from September 6, 2026. Under a directive issued by the Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA), businesses will no longer be allowed to charge customers separate fees for plastic shopping bags, as authorities step up efforts to reduce single-use plastic waste.
The new policy applies to shops, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and other commercial establishments across Punjab. Officials say the decision aims to discourage the growing use of plastic bags and encourage consumers to shift toward reusable and environmentally friendly alternatives.
Punjab Plastic Bag Charges Rule Explained
According to Punjab EPA Director General Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, businesses cannot charge customers any additional amount for plastic shopping bags while selling products.
The agency said some retailers had started charging for plastic bags, which encouraged increased production rather than reducing plastic consumption. The new rule is intended to stop that practice and support the province’s campaign against single-use plastics.
Businesses will still be allowed to charge customers for reusable shopping bags made from non-plastic materials, including cloth and other recyclable or eco-friendly alternatives.
Penalties for Violating the Punjab Plastic Bag Charges Ban
The EPA has warned that businesses violating the new policy could face strict action.
Authorities may impose fines ranging from Rs5,000 to Rs50,000 on businesses found charging separately for plastic shopping bags. In serious cases, officials can seal commercial premises and register an FIR against those violating the rules.
The agency has also urged members of the public to report violations through the EPA helpline 1373.
Why This Update Matters
The ban is designed to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags by removing financial practices that encourage their continued production and use.
Officials also noted that some businesses had introduced branded plastic shopping bags and charged customers for them to increase profits. Under the new policy, this practice will no longer be allowed.
The move is expected to encourage greater use of reusable bags while supporting Punjab’s environmental protection efforts.
