LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced a fresh set of measures to curb environmental pollution, including a decision to take off the roads government vehicles with faulty engines and those emitting excessive smoke.
The decisions were approved during a meeting chaired by Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, held as part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s efforts to tackle air pollution and improve environmental conditions across the province.
As part of measures aimed at reducing crop-residue burning, authorities have been directed to provide 10,000 Super Seeders to farmers before the start of the harvesting season.
The government will also provide 150 combine harvesters, 13 transplanters and 500 rice straw shredders to facilitate the proper management of agricultural waste.
Officials briefed the meeting that 9,000 Super Seeders had already been provided to farmers under the chief minister’s initiative.
The meeting also approved a crackdown on crop-residue burning, polluting factories and vehicles emitting excessive smoke.
People found burning garbage or plastic in the open will face heavy fines, while action will also be taken against entities involved in practices contributing to air pollution.
Read more: Traffic police to suspend licences of drivers operating smoke-emitting vehicles
The Punjab government further decided to cancel the contract of any Suthra Punjab company found involved in waste burning, signaling tougher accountability for contractors responsible for waste management.
To strengthen enforcement, Safe City cameras will be used to monitor incidents of waste burning and identify individuals or entities contributing to pollution.
Authorities have also been directed to ensure strict compliance with environmental standard operating procedures (SOPs) at barbecue outlets and food streets.
Special teams will monitor identified pollution hotspots, while restaurants found violating environmental regulations could face sealing and other punitive action.
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