Anti-smog steps: Punjab has provided 10,000 subsidised super seeders to farmers: Marriyum

Punjab has provided 10,000 subsidized super seeders to farmers as part of an integrated strategy to reduce air pollution, according to Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. The government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is employing modern technology, data-driven monitoring, and strict enforcement to tackle pollution and enhance air quality.

Lahore had previously recorded a high Air Quality Index (AQI), prompting the authorities to adopt measures targeting industrial emissions, vehicular smoke, crop residue burning, and construction dust. An integrated monitoring system is being used, analyzing international, regional, and local data on wind speed, direction, temperature, and pollution sources.

Around 8,000 brick kilns have been converted to zigzag technology, with QR codes assigned to each kiln, while 709 kilns have been fully mechanized. Cameras are being installed on factory chimneys to monitor emissions. Low emission zones are planned in highly polluted areas. The government provided 10,000 super seeders to farmers at a 60% subsidy to discourage crop residue burning, promoting the productive use of crop residue through modern agricultural machinery and Kubota harvesters.

A force of 1,000 personnel has been established to enforce environmental laws, utilizing drone surveillance, advanced cameras, and digital monitoring systems. Emissions certifications have been issued for 500,000 vehicles, urging motorists to get their vehicles tested and certified by November 15. Action is being taken against smoke-emitting government vehicles, and the government is working on a buyback policy for older vehicles.

Electric bikes have been provided to 100,000 students to promote environmentally friendly transport, and 3,000 electric buses are planned to be introduced into public service by next June. 15 smog guns are currently operational, with another 15 being procured for deployment in other districts. 12 government departments are working together to combat smog, and citizens are urged to report environmental violations and smoke-emitting vehicles through helpline 1373.

The government claims that the number of patients suffering from respiratory and lung-related illnesses has declined by 25% during the current year, and educational institutions had not been closed during last year's smog season.