Punjab has taken a significant step in combating plastic pollution with the launch of Pakistan’s first skimming boat designed to remove floating plastic waste from canals and rivers.
The initiative has been introduced by the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency, which confirmed that the pilot project will begin operations in the Lahore Canal.
The skimming boat uses a front-mounted collection system to gather plastic bags, bottles, and other floating debris from the water surface.
Pilot project to assess technology
Officials said the Lahore Canal has been selected for the pilot phase to test the effectiveness of the skimming technology under real conditions. Based on the results, the project may be expanded to other canals and rivers across Punjab.
Environmental authorities believe the technology can play a critical role in preventing plastic waste from clogging waterways, harming aquatic life, and contributing to urban flooding.
Announcement made on Plastic Bag Free Day
The launch was announced during a seminar in Lahore held to mark Plastic Bag Free Day. Parliamentary Secretary for Environment Kanwal Liaqat and EPA Punjab Director General Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh addressed the event, reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to reducing plastic pollution.
Officials said eliminating single-use plastic remains a top priority under Punjab’s environmental protection agenda.
Enforcement against plastic bag use
According to EPA Punjab, enforcement efforts against banned plastic bags have intensified across the province. More than 50,000 businesses have pledged to stop using prohibited plastic bags.
Authorities have confiscated over 600,000 kilograms of banned plastic material and imposed fines exceeding Rs20 million on violators, reflecting stricter monitoring and compliance measures.
Part of a broader plastic management strategy
The skimming boat initiative forms part of the Punjab Plastic Management Strategy 2023, which focuses on reducing plastic waste through policy enforcement, public awareness, and technology-driven solutions.
Officials said future efforts will include enhanced monitoring systems, tougher penalties for violations, and greater collaboration with businesses and local communities.
Public urged to support clean waterways
Environmental officials urged citizens and commercial entities to actively support government efforts by reducing plastic use and ensuring proper waste disposal.
They said sustained public cooperation, combined with technological interventions like the skimming boat, is essential to making Punjab cleaner, plastic-free, and environmentally sustainable in the long run.
