Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz, has stated that 2025 has been a year marked by a notable decrease in smog and a significant improvement in air quality across Punjab, attributed to the environmentally friendly initiatives implemented by the provincial government.
Thanks to her dedicated efforts, Lahore has experienced a remarkable improvement in the Air Quality Index for the first time since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, while Punjab has distinguished itself as the leading province in environmental conservation.
Official statistics reveal that the average concentration of particulate matter in Pakistan has diminished by 8.7 percent, with Punjab achieving an impressive reduction of 33.2 percent.
Environmental enforcement has also been strengthened, with over 81,000 site visits and more than 113,000 inspections carried out throughout 2025.
Industrial facilities sealed in Punjab to tackle climate crisis
Authorities have issued upwards of 7,900 notices, sealed numerous industrial facilities, filed over 2,300 FIRs, and levied fines totaling more than Rs19 crore 20 lakh.
Moreover, over 419,000 kilograms of hazardous substances have been seized.
Frequent monitoring of brick kilns, factories, and construction sites has been ensured under specific directives, while more than 2,200 water recyclers and mist sprinklers have been installed, aiding in the reduction of particulate matter levels in Lahore from 102 to 89.
The deployment of anti-smog guns and effective strategies against crop residue burning have further enhanced air quality, supported by 67 active water bowser units for prompt response.
Significant improvements have also been noted in cities such as Rawalpindi, Multan, Bahawalpur, Lodhran, and Mandi Bahauddin, where better air quality metrics have been recorded.
Notably, Rawalpindi has emerged as one of the cleanest major cities, with PM2.5 levels falling below 50.
Read more: Good news for Lahoris: Anti-smog guns reduced air pollution
