Home / Environment / Pollution Fines Plummet as Enforcement Shifts Focus
Pollution Fines Plummet as Enforcement Shifts Focus
25 Aug
Summary
- Overall fines decreased by 65% in a month.
- Enforcement targets shifted to construction dust and brick kilns.
- Prohibited plastic inspections and fines saw a sharp decline.
Between July 21 and August 21, 2026, the Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) inspected 12,295 sites and units, resulting in Rs35.35 million in fines. This marks a significant decrease from the previous year, with overall fines falling by 65%.
The EPA's enforcement strategy shifted, prioritizing action against key pollution sources like brick kilns and fugitive dust from construction sites. Inspections of under-construction sites surged, leading to more sealed locations and the installation of mist sprinklers.
Brick kiln inspections rose, and demolitions increased, though sealing operations and FIRs declined. The industrial sector showed mixed results with fewer inspections but more demolitions. However, enforcement against prohibited plastic saw a substantial drop in inspections, confiscations, and fines.
While overall fines decreased, physical enforcement on critical pollution sources like construction dust and brick kilns was heightened. Officials stressed the importance of measurable environmental improvements over mere punitive actions.
