The use of banned polythene bags is going on unabated everywhere across the country, creating environmental havoc, experts say.
As polythene bags or other products remain in the mud, they bar the rainwater from seeping deep into the earth.
As a result the country’s lakes, canals, rivers and even haors, baors, beels and all marshy lands are being seriously polluted in addition to destroying the ecological system.
Polythene, which is very harmful, was banned in the country in 2002, but the sale and use of that polythene could not be stopped due to lack of enforcement of law.
Laws were also made keeping the provision of punishment. Then the use of paper bags as an alternative began.
But after a while, polythene came back into the market again. Its use is increasing day by day and now polythene has become an indispensable part of daily life.
At present, the dominance of polythene in the commodity market is at an extreme level. The result is an increase in disease, premature death and public health threat.
In addition, polythene is causing water logging by clogging the drainage system. The fertile power of the soil is declining. All in all, the environment is being polluted also.
Visiting different areas of the capital, this reporter found harmful polythene being used almost 100% in the sale of goods in every daily commodity market. Polybags are being used to sell rice, pulses, oil and vegetables. Polythene is also widely used to carry hot food from hotels and restaurants, and to keep products in the fridge.
On the other hand, no initiative is visible from the concerned authority to create awareness in this regard. As a result, the use of polythene has exceeded the level of long ago.
Shimul Miah, a vegetable seller in the capital's Karwan Bazar, said jute bags are not available in the market and cloth bags are more expensive. Polythene is cheaper, easier to carry so used more. He knows nothing about the harmful aspects of polythene.
Taniya, a buyer said, “Shopkeepers give polythene bags. We are using it. It is now available in the market. Use can be reduced through regular campaigns.”
Bangladesh Paribesh Andolan (Bapa) said that about 20 million polythene bags are being deposited in Dhaka alone every day. Due to the multiple use of polythene, cancer is settling in the human body.
Experts said the use of polythene or plastic is harmful to hormones. This can lead to infertility, damage to the fetus of a pregnant woman, and disability of the liver and kidneys. Apart from that, the use of polythene or plastic is one of the major causes of cancer.
Public health expert, Lelin Choudhury said that harmful polythene was banned out of concern for public health. But it is being used. It's too bad. The administration must be strict against it. People also need to be aware. The use of polythene, which is strictly prohibited, should be prevented.