The Punjab government has made the decision to strengthen its efforts against illegal industrial units that contribute to smog and environmental damage.
Instructions have been given for extensive action against these illegal units located in both industrial zones and residential areas.
Teams from the Environmental Protection Department (EPA) have been ordered to carry out a major operation down to the union council level.
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that a zero-tolerance approach has been implemented against those harming public health, and a complete ban has been placed on all activities that generate smog.
She warned that strict legal measures will be enforced against anyone who disobeys government directives.
Illegal units to be demolished
Immediate demolition of illegal units has also been mandated, along with the registration of cases against their owners.
Marriyum Aurangzeb urged the public to support the government’s environmental protection efforts, and called on the owners of illegal units to voluntarily cease their operations, or face demolition.
She emphasised that no leniency will be shown to any illegal plant or unit contributing to smog, as eliminating smog is a top priority for the Punjab Chief Minister, ensuring that the crackdown will persist without exception.
Meanwhile, actions are also being taken against illegal fat-melting units and factories that burn animal remains in Lahore.
The Environment Department reported that over 64 illegal units were targeted in the past 15 days, with a total of 374 illegal units shut down in the last two years.
Authorities are actively addressing factories that emit smoke, unpleasant odors, and cause air pollution.
Actions were also taken against illegal fat-melting and garbage-burning units in the Bakar Mandi area, where there have been numerous complaints about severe air pollution and odors.
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