LAHORE: Under the province-wide ‘Clean Air Campaign,’ the Punjab government has intensified action against industries, factories and brick kilns violating environmental laws.

In the latest operation, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) demolished a pollution-causing industrial unit on the outskirts of Lahore after the offender broke official seal twice in one night, said a government spokesperson. During the operation, he added, a large quantity of carbon bags and other incriminating evidence were recovered and the suspects were handed over to police.

The environment department stated that this operation was a part of the government’s ongoing aggressive campaign to eliminate smog.

As a part of the latest measures, 41 state-of-the-art air quality monitoring systems have been made fully operational across the province. Drone squads have been deployed and smog-free zones covering a radius of three kilometers around motorways have been established.

Govt intensifies action against polluting industry; demolishes an industrial unit near Lahore

Under the ‘Punjab Clean Air Programme’ — a $300 million initiative — more than 5,000 super seeders, 1,500 electric buses, fuel testing laboratories and an advanced monitoring network are being implemented. Across Punjab, over 11,000 brick kilns have been inspected — of which 1,191 have been demolished, 1,335 sealed, 484 factories shut down while and more than 77,000 smoke-emitting vehicles were fined.

To prevent the burning of crop residue, farmers are being provided with super seeders, straw shredders, mulchers and balers on subsidy, along with financial assistance through the Kissan Card to ensure eco-friendly land preparation.

The health department has activated emergency counters in all hospitals. Special medicines and additional medical staff have been assigned for patients suffering from asthma, flu, cough, respiratory issues or eye irritation. The citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during the night and early morning, wear masks, drink plenty of water and seek immediate medical attention in case of respiratory or eye discomfort.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz issued emergency directives late at night to the district administration, environment department and police regarding the deteriorating air quality in Lahore. She emphasized that “clean air is every citizen’s fundamental right. No negligence will be tolerated. All departments concerned must remain active in the field 24/7 and strictly enforce the Zero Tolerance Policy against all pollution-causing elements”.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the Punjab government viewed smog not as a seasonal but as an environmental challenge.

Under the “Clean Air Programme,” all modern resources are being utiliSed to protect public health. Through a combination of public awareness, law enforcement and technology, the government is fully committed to overcoming air pollution, she added.

Meanwhile, Punjab Police’s operations are continuing to prevent smog, control air pollution and ensure environmental protection.

A police spokesperson said 24 cases were registered and violators were arrested in various districts, including Lahore, as a part of the smog crackdown during the last 24 hours. He said fines amounting to over Rs500,000 were imposed on 217 individuals while nine persons were issued warnings.

A total of 66 violations were reported for burning crop residue, 74 for smoke-emitting vehicles and five for brick kiln violations.

Published in Dawn, November 5th, 2025