The government is intensifying its efforts to enforce the ban on polythene bags, urging all citizens to comply with the directives to stop using such bags.

Non-compliance will result in strict actions, said Tapan Kumar Biswas, additional secretary and chair of the monitoring committee on the polythene issue, during a monitoring operation at New Market Kitchen Market in the capital yesterday.

Talking to reporters, he said since November 3, authorities have conducted 166 raids to enforce the ban. Officials fined 349 establishments a total of Tk 19,29,900 and confiscated 40,000kg of polythene during this period.

"Public awareness is growing, and we are witnessing gradual improvements," he said.

"Awareness campaigns, providing alternatives, and strict enforcement are advancing simultaneously," added Tapan.

During the monitoring activity, market committee members acknowledged the harmful effects of polythene usage and pledged to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.

Officials from the environment ministry, law enforcement agencies, and representatives from the media participated in the operation.