The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed fines exceeding Rs200 million on industrial units and brick kilns in a crackdown to control air pollution and smog ahead of the winter season.
Over the past 45 days, inspections of 7,358 industrial units across Punjab resulted in 39 demolitions, 219 sealings, 80 legal cases, and fines totaling more than Rs. 215 million, according to an EPA spokesperson.
Dense smoke is contributing to rising air pollution in Punjab. Photo: Express
Since August 1, 150 brick kilns have been sealed, 119 demolished, and cases registered against 250 violators.
Secretary EPA Silwat Saeed said the measures are part of a zero-tolerance policy aimed at protecting public health and mitigating environmental hazards.
Dense smoke, contributing to rising air pollution in Punjab. Photo: Express
The agency has also intensified its campaign against plastic bag use, conducting 11,805 inspections, seizing 26,285 kilograms of plastic bags, and registering 37 FIRs.
Meanwhile, 138 car service stations were served notices, with 48 sealed for non-compliance.
The EPA emphasised that the campaign will continue throughout the smog season to ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws.
Dense smoke is contributing to rising air pollution in Punjab. Photo: Express
Read: EPA uncovers tire-burning plants fueling Lahore smog
Earlier this week, the EPA made septic tanks mandatory for all houses and plazas in housing societies across the province to protect underground water from sewage contamination, a major cause of waterborne diseases.
Every house will be required to have a three-chamber septic tank, while societies must install a wastewater treatment plant. Research shows that such septic tanks can remove up to 70% of solid waste and cut water pollution by 40%.
Dense smoke is contributing to rising air pollution in Punjab. Photo: Express
The EPA has also set size requirements for septic tanks: 6x4x4 feet for a 5-marla house, 9x6x4 feet for a 10-marla house, 10x6x5 feet for a one-kanal plaza, 15x6x5 feet for three- to four-kanal plazas, and 16x6x5 feet for units larger than four kanals.
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