LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched the country’s first-ever Environment Protection Squad (EPS) at a passing-out parade here on Wednesday.

The e-bike squad will work as an eco-friendly unit.

EPS Green Squad will launch anti-plastic campaign, dust and dengue control in the urban areas. The Blue Squad will strive to protect water bodies.

The Black Squad will work against vehicle fuel testing and toxic fumes. The Red Squad will work to prevent harmful substances in the industrial areas and hospitals.

The Hawk Eye Squad will conduct environmental surveillance with 360-degree live camera vehicles and 11 thermal drones that can see in the dark.

A special Urban Patrolling and Vigilance Squad will work to prevent environmental hazards. The Brick Kiln Squad of the EPS will monitor brick kilns on eight special double cabin vehicles.

The Anti-Plastic and Dust Squad will work to eliminate plastic and dust pollution. The Point Source Pollution Monitoring Squad will monitor environmental pollutants. A check will be kept on air quality in the relevant areas through a Mobile Air Quality Monitoring Station.

The Environmental Approval Management System and Emission Testing System for vehicles was also launched. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz attended the passing-out parade of the Environment Protection Force.

Published in Dawn, April 17th, 2025