Smoke-emitting heavy vehicles: EPA Punjab intensifies crackdown

Lahore: The Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has ramped up its effort to target smoke-emitting vehicles, with an emphasis on heavy trucks, buses, SUVs and diesel-powered transport. In Lahore alone, from May to August 2026, the EPA issued 1,745 fines and impounded 621 vehicles due to environmental violations. The agency attributes these actions to its ongoing pre-smog preparedness and plans to intensify enforcement in the coming days.

The EPA is focusing heavily on heavy vehicles and diesel-powered transport because they can emit excessive smoke, which worsens air quality in busy cities. Lahore's Environmental Protection Agency spokesperson, Sajid Bashir, said they are stepping up their field operations before the smog season. Vehicles found emitting smoke beyond the allowed limits are facing legal consequences, and the agency is increasing roadside inspections in high-traffic and commercial areas.

The EPA is urging heavy vehicle owners to maintain their engines and exhaust systems and ensure their vehicles have valid fitness certification. The agency plans to tighten enforcement at city entry points, where heavy vehicles will undergo stricter scrutiny. The Safe Cities Authority's camera network will assist in identifying and monitoring non-compliant vehicles, helping to intercept pollution sources before they enter congested urban areas.

DG EPA Punjab Abdullah Nayyar Sheikh has directed field officers to intensify enforcement against smoke-emitting vehicles as part of the province's pre-smog preparations. He stressed the importance of coordination between various departments, including the EPA, district administrations, traffic authorities, and the Punjab Safe Cities Authority. The enforcement effort aims to prevent unfit and highly polluting vehicles from entering major urban areas by treating vehicular emission control as a priority.

Secretary Environment Protection and Climate Change Department Silwat Saeed emphasized the need for timely preparation and prevention measures before air quality deteriorates. The department's strategy focuses on coordinated action against major pollution sources and early intervention to maintain environmental standards throughout the pre-smog period.