Punjab cracks down on smoke emitting vehicles

Punjab’s traffic authorities have accelerated their province-wide campaign against smoke-emitting and environmentally harmful vehicles as part of ongoing efforts to curb smog.

The crackdown, launched under the directives of Punjab DIG Traffic Muhammad Waqas Nazir, has resulted in extensive penalties, suspensions and legal action over the past several weeks.

“During the last three weeks alone, fines exceeding Rs174.9 million were imposed on vehicles found releasing excessive smoke,” said a spokesperson for the department. The drive has recorded a significant 116% increase in enforcement activity compared to previous periods, reflecting the government’s heightened focus on tackling air pollution.

This month, authorities issued more than 87,000 traffic tickets to smoke-emitting vehicles, while 41 vehicles had their fitness certificates suspended. Additionally, route permits for over 35 environmentally damaging vehicles were cancelled.

The crackdown also led to the registration of 24 FIRs and the impounding of more than 13,000 smoke-emitting vehicles across Punjab.

Read: Cross-border smog turns air toxic

In parallel, over 5,000 uncovered vehicles transporting sand and soil were subjected to heavy fines due to their contribution to airborne particulate pollution. The Punjab DIG Traffic stated that offenders are being fined Rs2,000 alongside strict legal action.

Emphasising public cooperation, DIG Muhammad Waqas Nazir urged citizens to ensure regular maintenance of their vehicles, noting that toxic emissions from poorly maintained engines significantly contribute to respiratory illnesses and environmental degradation. “The poisonous smoke emitted from vehicles causes countless diseases and severe environmental pollution. We must eliminate these toxic emissions to protect our environment,” he said.

Additional Punjab IG Traffic praised the performance of traffic police teams, stating that they are delivering “excellent results” in enforcing regulations against smog-producing vehicles. Officials reaffirmed that government directives aimed at reducing smog are being implemented rigorously across the province.