Punjab has launched the use of its Safe Cities surveillance network to identify vehicles that are emitting excessive smoke and to impose e-challans through a newly created EPA monitoring desk.
Officials reported that enforcement actions taken this month have resulted in penalties against 211 vehicles, accumulating to over Rs. 1 million for breaches of emission standards.
Lahore EPA Deputy Director Ali Ejaz noted that while pollution persists during the summer, its effects seem diminished due to seasonal factors.
He stated that winter conditions are more likely to trap pollutants close to the ground, making smog more visible, while stronger winds and rainfall during the summer help in spreading pollutants and reducing airborne dust, thereby improving overall air quality measurements.
The official further mentioned that the emission testing system, which was first launched as a pilot program in winter, has now been formalised and expanded with the assistance of the private sector.
He also indicated that the EPA is collaborating with traffic police in joint operations to enforce emission standards and impose e-challans on those who violate them.
Authorities warn against fake e-challan messages
Earlier, traffic police officials warned citizens against fake traffic e-challan messages and urged them to beware of such scammers and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Officials linked the scam to misuse of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) system.
In an advisory, traffic police authorities taking notice of fake messages warned that scammers were sending fraudulent e-challan messages from multiple numbers including 8070 and even from the official 9915 number.
Read more: Fake e-challan messages: Citizens warned against scammers
