The Punjab government has announced strict measures to control air pollution across the province. Government vehicles with faulty engines or excessive smoke emissions will be removed from the roads.
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.
Crackdown on smoke and waste burning
The government approved strict action against smoke-emitting vehicles, polluting factories and the burning of crop residue. People who burn garbage or plastic in the open will face heavy fines.
Companies working under the Suthra Punjab programme will also face stricter accountability. The contract of any company found involved in waste burning will be cancelled.
Moreover, Safe City cameras will monitor waste burning incidents and help authorities identify those responsible. Special teams will monitor areas identified as polluted areas.
Authorities have also been told to ensure that barbecue outlets and food streets strictly follow environmental standard operating procedures. Restaurants that violate the rules could be sealed or face other penalties.
Farmers to receive more machinery
The Punjab government is also focusing on crop residue management. Authorities have been directed to provide 10,000 Super Seeders to farmers before the harvesting season.
Officials said 9,000 Super Seeders had already been distributed under the chief minister’s initiative.
In addition, farmers will receive 150 combine harvesters, 13 transplanters and 500 rice straw shredders, to help farmers manage agricultural residue properly instead of burning it.
Punjab expands clean transport plans
Punjab considers wider measures to reduce vehicle emissions through this crackdown. The government has proposed gradually restricting vehicles older than 20 years rather than imposing an immediate ban.
Government also proposed incentives for cleaner vehicles and more than 3,000 charging stations across Punjab. Newly purchased government vehicles to use electric or other low-emission technology by 2030.