In a significant move to control air pollution throughout the province, the Punjab Environment Department has approved the creation of environmental buffer zones surrounding all industrial regions.
As per the directives issued by DG EPA Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, it is now compulsory to establish green buffer zones around industrial estates and zones to reduce the impact of smoke and harmful gases released by factories.
This initiative is being implemented under the Environmental Protection Act of 1997, which seeks to protect public health by regulating industrial pollution.
The air quality in Punjab presently ranges from Moderate to Hazardous, with significant urban areas often listed among the most polluted globally.
As of April, air pollution continues to be a serious public health issue, particularly in central and southern Punjab.
Strict action to be taken against industries
The Department of Environment has indicated that industrial pollution poses a grave risk to human health, urging the enforcement of strict measures against those who breach environmental regulations.
Officials have stated that penalties will be imposed on organisations that fail to plant trees in industrial zones, and a complete ban on tree cutting without authorisation has been enforced.
Measures will also be taken against individuals who occupy or damage green belts, and organisations that do not achieve their planting goals will be held responsible.
The EPA has instructed the relevant authorities to actively monitor and ensure the rigorous enforcement of these orders, while the GIS Department has been assigned the task of mapping for effective oversight of industrial areas.
Officials have noted that this initiative will not only improve environmental conditions but also promote a balance between industrial growth and public health.
Read more: Punjab emerges as top-performing province in environmental protection
