The Punjab government has announced a fresh set of measures to curb environmental pollution, including removing government vehicles with faulty engines or excessive smoke emissions from the roads.
The decisions were taken during a meeting chaired by Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb as part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s efforts to control air pollution across the province.
To discourage crop-residue burning, authorities have been directed to provide 10,000 Super Seeders to farmers before the harvesting season. The government will also provide 150 combine harvesters, 13 transplanters and 500 rice straw shredders to support agricultural waste management.
Officials told the meeting that 9,000 Super Seeders have already been distributed to farmers under the chief minister’s initiative.
The meeting approved a crackdown on crop-residue burning, polluting factories and smoke-emitting vehicles. Heavy fines will be imposed on those found burning garbage or plastic in the open.
The government also decided to cancel the contract of any Suthra Punjab company found involved in waste burning.
Safe City cameras will be used to monitor waste-burning incidents and identify those responsible for contributing to pollution.
Authorities were further directed to ensure strict compliance with environmental SOPs at barbecue outlets and food streets. Special teams will monitor pollution hotspots, while restaurants violating environmental regulations may face sealing and other punitive action.
