Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has launched a major crackdown on transport law violators to tackle worsening air pollution and smog in Lahore. This operation, coordinated with local authorities and police, targets vehicles emitting excessive smoke, a key contributor to the city’s severe pollution.
On Saturday, raids were conducted at bus terminals along Bund Road. Dozens of fines were issued to vehicles found violating emissions standards. In addition, 24 vehicles were impounded for breaching environmental regulations. The crackdown specifically targeted passenger buses, which were inspected for excessive smoke emissions.
Commitment to Clean Air
Environmental Protection Secretary Raja Jahangir Anwar emphasized that similar actions would continue in the coming days. He stressed that strict measures would be enforced against those who fail to comply with environmental standards. “We are committed to improving Lahore’s air quality,” he said, underlining the department’s determination to hold violators accountable.
The crackdown is part of a larger initiative aimed at mitigating the severe smog conditions affecting Lahore. The city, Pakistan’s second-largest, has become notorious for its dangerously high pollution levels, alarming both health experts and residents. The pollution is linked to various health issues, including respiratory illnesses, and has been a growing concern for months.
Smog Spreads Across Punjab
On Saturday, the relentless smog that has engulfed several cities in Punjab began to spread, affecting other parts of the country. The dense haze wreaked havoc on transportation, grounding flights and closing motorways. In Lahore, the smog triggered lockdown-like restrictions, further disrupting daily life. The city’s air quality index (AQI) has placed it at the top of the global pollution charts, continuing to worsen with no sign of relief.
While Lahore remains the most polluted city, other regions are also grappling with high pollution levels. Multan, with an AQI of 2135, ranks as the second-most polluted city. Peshawar, Islamabad, and other cities have also reported dangerously high pollution levels. These elevated AQI readings have raised alarm over the widespread health impact of the smog.
Weather Conditions
Meteorologists attribute the ongoing smog to easterly winds coming from Indian regions, including Chandigarh, Delhi, and Jaipur. These winds are pushing the toxic haze across Punjab, intensifying the pollution crisis. On Saturday, the air movement around Lahore was recorded at just 4 km per hour, while in Multan it was slightly higher at 6 km per hour, with the wind moving from north to south.
Temporary Closure of Motorways
As the smog continues to thicken, authorities have taken steps to ensure public safety. Several sections of the motorway network have been temporarily closed due to reduced visibility. Notably, the M-5 Motorway from Multan to Zahir Peer was shut down, further disrupting travel in the region.
According to meteorologists, the smog is expected to persist for the next two to three days. However, a potential shift in wind direction from west to east could bring some relief. In the meantime, local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, taking additional measures to control pollution levels and protect public health.
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