Lahore Traffic Police has launched a major late night operation against heavy and commercial vehicles. They took action against more than 1,000 vehicles for different traffic and safety violations.
The crackdown was carried out at major entry and exit points of Lahore. According to traffic police, the operation was launched on the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to improve traffic management and road safety.
Heavy vehicles checked across Lahore
Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi visited several locations during the operation. These included Shahdara Chowk, Barkat Puli, Imamia Colony Railway Crossing and Sagian Bridge.
Officials briefed the CTO about the movement of heavy vehicles and measures being taken to maintain lane discipline.
Police took action against 209 tractor trolleys carrying sand and soil without proper tarpaulin covers.
Another 122 heavy vehicles were stopped because they did not have valid fitness certificates.
Cases were also registered against 16 drivers who were operating heavy machinery and trailers without valid driving licences.
Overloaded and smoke-emitting vehicles targeted
The crackdown also covered overloaded vehicles. Police targeted 202 vehicles carrying fodder, hay and steel bars beyond permitted limits.
Meanwhile, 144 unfit and heavily smoke emitting vehicles were stopped from entering Lahore. Challans were issued to another 88 heavy vehicles and machinery for excessive smoke emissions.
CTO Shirazi said commercial vehicles would only be allowed to enter the city if their drivers had valid licences and all required documents.
Vehicles transporting sand, soil or similar materials must also use proper tarpaulin covers. He said traffic laws would be enforced without any concession.
Action against polluting vehicles intensifies
The operation comes as Punjab increases its preparations for the smog season. The Environment Protection Agency has also stepped up inspections of heavy vehicles, trucks, buses and other diesel-powered transport.
EPA data shows that 1,745 vehicle challans were issued in Lahore between May 1 and August 31, while 621 vehicles were impounded. Authorities also imposed Rs4.483 million in fines for environmental violations during this period.