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Punjab Battles Smog: Preemptive Crackdown Launched
10 Sep
Summary
- Punjab initiates "pre-smog crackdown" to curb air pollution sources.
- Authorities target vehicle emissions, waste burning, and construction dust.
- New strategy focuses on preemptive action before smog season begins.
The Punjab government has initiated a comprehensive "pre-smog crackdown" to preemptively address severe air pollution anticipated from October to January, particularly in Lahore. This proactive strategy targets key pollution sources such as crop-residue burning, waste incineration, construction dust, and vehicle emissions.
Authorities are enforcing stricter measures, including a ban on dry sweeping in favor of mechanical or wet methods and prohibiting open waste burning. Construction sites must adhere to dust-control protocols like water sprinkling and covering material transport. These measures are being integrated into project approval terms to ensure environmental compliance.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed enhanced efforts to strengthen the anti-smog strategy, emphasizing preemptive actions. This includes promoting modern machinery for crop residue disposal, discouraging plastic burning, and intensifying monitoring of brick kilns, restaurants, and vehicles for smoke emissions. Advanced monitoring technologies like Safe City cameras and AI are being deployed to ensure compliance with pollution regulations.
