E-challans for littering in Lahore markets

LAHORE: On Tuesday, the Suthra Punjab Authority (SPA) launched an e-challan system to penalize littering in public places across Lahore, with severe fines for burning tyres and waste. The initiative targets 200 commercial markets and major roads, including The Mall, Jail Road, and Ferozepur Road. Initially, 25 teams commenced the e-challan service, issuing warnings to those found littering. The enforcement staff totals 75, including 50 in field and supervising teams.

Shehryar Arif Khan, SPA CEO, announced the launch during a ceremony in Liberty Chowk, attended by retired Capt Ali Ejaz and Khan. The month of September serves as a grace period for violators, with formal fines starting October 1. Currently, residential areas are not subject to e-challan issuance, as the authority prioritizes education.

During the grace period, teams will also educate individuals about the consequences of littering. The e-challan system was formally introduced at the ceremony, with officials emphasizing anti-littering squads' deployment across the city to monitor violations and raise public awareness about cleanliness laws. The squads would issue warnings and messages from Tuesday, with formal fines beginning September 1, 2026.

Repeated violations of cleanliness regulations would lead to legal action and fines. Burning waste could incur fines ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs500,000 and a maximum of two years' imprisonment. Tyre burning, whether by an industrial unit or individual, carries a fine of up to Rs500,000 and up to seven years' imprisonment. All fines must be paid via banking or digital channels; cash payments are not accepted.

The SPA aims to transform Lahore into a waste-free city through the e-challan system and educational efforts.