KUSHTIA, Jan 24: Despite imposition of ban by the government over 14 years ago, environmentally harmful polythene bags are still in rampant use in the district.
Sale and use of banned polythene bags is going on unabated throughout the district, according to field sources.
Oblivious of its detrimental effect on environment, people are using it for 'convenience' while the authorities concerned are turning a blind eye to the matter, the sources said.
"Polythene bags are very cheap and convenient to use. And so, it is popular among the small sellers and buyers of grocery, vegetables, fish and meat. Recently polythene bags with handles have flooded markets in the district," said Rahim, a grocer at GK Ghat More in the town.Admitting rampant use of polythene bags and increase in its sale recently, Dr Anowar Hossain Mollik, director of the Department of Environment in Khulna division, said, "We are conducting drives in 10 districts under Khulna division with the help of district administration against the sale of polythene bags. Local wholesalers buy the item mostly from Old Dhaka. It is also smuggled from India. Recently BGB seized about four tonnes of polythene bags and handed over to us."
He emphasised awareness building among common people about the harmful effects of polythene bag.
