The Punjab government has launched a province-wide campaign against illegal factories operating in residential areas on the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
As part of the drive, a team from the Environmental Protection Department carried out a major operation in Chiniot and demolished an illegal leather processing unit accused of causing environmental pollution. The team also demolished a warehouse used for storing animal hides in a residential neighbourhood.
Officials said the facility was processing hides and manufacturing leather products, which produced foul smells and created unhealthy conditions for nearby residents.
Authorities launched the operation after receiving complaints from local residents. People in the area welcomed the action and thanked the chief minister and environmental authorities for addressing their concerns.
Residents said the pollution and unhygienic conditions had affected the health and daily lives of children, women and elderly people for a long time.
Maryam Nawaz said those who violate environmental and zoning laws will not receive any leniency.
Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said industrial activities are not allowed in residential areas and warned that the government will take strict action against illegal tanneries, slaughterhouses, plastic-burning units, waste-burning activities and those who set crop residue on fire.
She urged citizens to follow environmental regulations and said the government will continue taking action against polluters across the province without discrimination.
Marriyum Aurangzeb also said Punjab’s air quality has improved significantly over the past two years due to the environmental measures introduced by the provincial government.
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