Punjab launches ‘preemptive crackdown’ on smog-inducing activities
LAHORE: The Punjab government on Wednesday launched a “pre-smog crackdown” on waste burning and vehicle emissions in the province to preempt severe air pollution that engulfs different parts of the province, especially Lahore, from October to January every year. The government ordered a clampdown on major sources of air pollution, including construction dust, dry sweeping, crop-residue burning,…
Punjab officials have announced a "pre-smog crackdown" targeting activities that contribute to air pollution in the region, particularly in Lahore. The government aims to prevent severe smog from enveloping the area between October and January. Major sources of pollution, such as construction dust, dry sweeping, crop residue burning, brick kiln emissions, waste burning, and vehicle emissions, are under scrutiny.
The Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has directed various departments, civic authorities, and development agencies to strengthen pollution control measures. The Suthra Punjab Authority has been instructed to discontinue dry sweeping and instead use mechanical or wet sweeping methods. Open burning of solid waste, including roadside waste and leaves, is also prohibited.
The agency is closely monitoring dust and waste-burning hotspots, especially during peak smog periods. Construction sites are being asked to implement regular water sprinkling, cover vehicles transporting materials, and install dust-containment barriers. Compliance with dust-control protocols is to be ensured through terms and conditions for project approval.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has emphasized the need for preemptive action against pollution sources and directed authorities to prevent crop residue burning and the use of plastic-based products. Inspection of brick kilns, restaurants, and vehicles with high smoke emissions has been intensified, and the use of advanced monitoring systems, including Safe City cameras and AI-based monitoring, has been expanded.
The administration is urging citizens to cooperate during the smog season to ensure the success of the anti-smog drive.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
