Factories emitting toxic smoke face raids
Emissions standards ignored partly because of fear of hampering economic growth. PHOTO: EXPRESS
The second phase of a plan aimed at improving air quality and reducing smog in Punjab has been initiated with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) teams launching raids on factories emitting toxic smoke.
Provincial Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that EPA teams had taken action along the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway as part of efforts to enforce environmental laws.
In the coming days, a crackdown on factories contributing to environmental pollution, the discharge of toxic substances and smog formation will be accelerated.
The chief minister has ordered efforts towards curbing harmful pollutants to safeguard public health.
The measures aim to improve the air quality and address the smog situation.
Mapping of areas with high smoke emissions has also commenced with the use of modern equipment to assess smoke levels. Additionally, expedited legislative measures will result in penalties and hefty fines.
The senior minister urged industries to comply with environmental laws and protect air quality. She emphasised adoption of modern machinery and techniques to ensure protection against diseases and allowing both birds and humans to breathe clean air.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 30th, 2024.