The Punjab government has stepped up its anti-smog campaign, inspecting hundreds of industrial facilities and brick kilns within 24 hours as authorities intensify efforts to curb air pollution across the province.
The operation, launched on the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, resulted in the sealing of seven industrial units and four brick kilns for environmental violations. One industrial unit and one brick kiln were also demolished, according to the provincial Environment Department.
Authorities imposed fines of Rs310,000 on industrial units and Rs500,000 on brick kilns. A case was also registered against a brick kiln for breaching environmental regulations.
Officials said enforcement teams were continuing inspections to identify pollution sources and ensure compliance with environmental laws.
Punjab Anti-Smog Operation Targets Factories and Brick Kilns
During the latest round of inspections, authorities examined 221 industrial units and 354 brick kilns across the province.
The crackdown forms part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce harmful emissions and address activities contributing to worsening air quality. Industrial facilities and brick kilns remain among the sources being targeted through inspections and enforcement measures.
Officials said action would continue against establishments found violating environmental standards as the provincial government strengthens its response to smog.
Crackdown on Illegal Plastic Use and Commercial Kitchens
The Punjab government’s anti-pollution drive has also expanded to include the use of substandard plastic and other environmental violations.
Over the past 24 hours, inspection teams visited 169 locations as part of the campaign. Three sites were sealed, while authorities confiscated 317 kilogrammes of plastic material.
In a separate effort to control smoke emissions from commercial kitchens and barbecue outlets, officials inspected 131 locations. Suction hoods were installed at 78 sites to help manage smoke and fumes.
Authorities said they were also checking whether the installed exhaust systems were operating properly, rather than relying solely on their presence.
Drone Surveillance and Smog Guns Deployed Across Punjab
The provincial government is using multiple monitoring methods to identify pollution sources and respond to violations. These include drone surveillance, night patrols and field teams operating under the Hawk Eye monitoring system.
According to officials, teams are taking immediate action when environmental violations are detected.
The administration is also deploying smog guns and conducting water sprinkling in affected areas to help reduce pollution at the local level. These measures form part of a wider effort to manage air quality alongside inspections and enforcement against polluting activities.
Lahore Records AQI of 172 on October 24
Lahore recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 172 on October 24, highlighting the continuing air pollution concerns facing the provincial capital.
Wind speeds were recorded at six kilometres per hour, with winds blowing from the east-southeast. Authorities said they were closely tracking pollution levels because changing wind speeds can influence the movement and concentration of pollutants.
Officials added that anti-smog operations would be adjusted according to changing weather conditions, with monitoring continuing as air quality fluctuates.
The latest reading underscores the importance of sustained pollution control measures, particularly in urban areas where emissions from vehicles, industries and other sources can contribute to poor air quality.
Maryam Aurangzeb Calls for Public Cooperation in Anti-Smog Campaign
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb said the government was strengthening preventive measures to combat environmental pollution, with identifying and controlling local sources of emissions remaining a major priority.
She said field teams were actively enforcing environmental regulations as authorities worked to improve air quality and provide cleaner air for residents.
Aurangzeb also called on farmers and members of the public to support the anti-smog campaign. She stressed that government enforcement alone would not be sufficient without cooperation from citizens and other stakeholders.
The provincial administration is continuing its crackdown on polluting activities while monitoring Lahore’s air quality and deploying measures intended to reduce emissions. Officials have indicated that enforcement and preventive operations will continue in response to environmental conditions.
