The government of Punjab has launched stricter anti-smog measures within the province.
The latest actions were discussed during a meeting chaired by Chief Traffic Officer (CTO), Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi, where officials reviewed the causes of worsening air quality and planned immediate enforcement measures.
One of the main decisions includes stricter action against vehicles carrying sand, soil and fodder without proper covers.
Officials said uncovered cargo contributes heavily to dust and airborne particles in the city.
Checkpoints are being established at major entry and exit routes of Lahore to inspect vehicles for compliance.
Authorities said only vehicles with valid licences, updated fitness certificates and properly covered loads will be allowed to enter the city.
Traffic police have also been directed to launch operations against smoke-emitting vehicles, which officials identified as a major source of pollution.
“No vehicle contributing to environmental pollution will be allowed to operate on city roads,” Shirazi said during the meeting.
Authorities added that legal action would also be taken against overloaded transport vehicles carrying construction materials extending beyond their bodies, saying such practices increase traffic risks and congestion.
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Officials have been instructed to identify traffic congestion points across Lahore and prepare a traffic management plan aimed at reducing long queues and idle vehicle emissions.
Heavy vehicles are also expected to face restrictions on entering the city during certain hours.
The measures come as Lahore continues to record unhealthy air quality levels.
Recent readings placed the city’s Air Quality Index above 190, a level considered harmful for sensitive groups.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that fine particulate matter, especially PM2.5 pollution, can increase the risk of respiratory and heart-related illnesses.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, hot and dry weather conditions are prevailing across much of the country.
In Lahore, low wind speeds and the absence of rainfall are limiting the dispersal of pollutants, allowing smog to persist over the city.
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