Punjab govt bans entrance of heavy vehicles amid smog

LAHORE: The Punjab government has issued strict measures to prevent smog and air pollution in Lahore, initiating round-the-clock surveillance of trucks and trolleys loaded with construction material and disallowing the entry of heavy vehicles that do not adhere to standard operating procedures.

Under the new enforcement plan, authorities will monitor construction material trucks and trolleys 24 hours a day. Officials said they will implement a zero-tolerance policy against vehicles emitting visible smoke and will take daily action against overloaded trolleys. Transporters must fully cover sand, gravel, soil, and other loose materials with tarpaulins before using public roads.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has intensified inspections at Lahore’s entry points and will levy heavy fines and vehicle suspensions on violators of environmental regulations, the administration indicated.

EPA teams, together with WASA and district authorities, will conduct round-the-clock water-sprinkling activities at construction sites and identified areas of dust generation to dampen airborne particles.

Authorities said water sprinkling will start at night to cut down on dust before morning rush, and that all field units will be deployed until air quality is better. The provincial government also ordered a stringent enforcement drive against cars that emit excess smoke, with immediate immobilization for repeat offenders.

The chief minister directed that no truck or trolley carrying building material be permitted to run without a proper tarp, and she directed all departments to provide regular reports of anti-smog activity. Officials stated that they will release enforcement data and fines as well to enhance transparency and prevent noncompliance.

Punjab’s tourism and public information departments will further widen an awareness campaign to inform drivers, contractors, and the general public about the new regulations and best practices for emission and dust reduction.

The officials explained that the combined effort of monitoring, fines, and public outreach is designed to usher measurable improvement in Lahore’s air quality before this winter’s smog season.

Government officials cautioned that severe sanctions, such as heavy fines and car bans, will persist until air quality indicators stabilize, calling on citizens and companies to collaborate to safeguard public health.