Punjab launches skimming boat to remove plastic waste from waterways

The Environmental Protection Agency Punjab has launched its first skimming boat aimed at cleaning plastic waste from canals and rivers, marking a new step in efforts to tackle plastic pollution across the province. The newly introduced skimming boat will begin operations as a pilot project in the Lahore Canal, where it will help remove plastic waste and improve waterway cleanliness. The announcement was made during a seminar on Plastic Bag Free Day. Parliamentary Secretary for Environment Kanwal Liaqat attended the event as the chief guest, while Director General EPA Punjab Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh was the guest of honour. During the seminar, participants pledged not to use banned plastic bags. Officials said more than 50,000 business owners have committed to supporting the campaign against prohibited plastic bags. As per officials, the authorities have confiscated more than 600,000 kilograms of banned plastic during the campaign, while fines exceeding Rs20 million have been imposed on violators. Kanwal Liaqat praised the ongoing campaign and said field enforcement against environmental violations was difficult but a necessary national responsibility. She made it clear that no environmental violation would be tolerated under any pressure or influence and expressed full support for EPA Punjab field teams. She further emphasised that transforming Punjab into a plastic-free zone requires collective efforts from the public, businesses, industries, media, NGOs, and civil society organisations. Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh stressed that practical measures were essential to eliminate plastic pollution, adding that the real challenge begins when commitments are translated into action. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate banned single-use plastic bags from Punjab. He said enforcement teams will continue strict action against the use of prohibited plastic bags, while the anti-single-use plastic campaign will be strengthened through technology and data-based monitoring s