Trucks & heavy vehicles banned in Lahore: Here’s why

LAHORE: As part of the anti-smog campaign in Lahore, strict measures are being taken on vehicles entering the city to reduce air pollution.

Lahore Traffic Police has established twelve checkpoints at important entry and exit routes with the support of Department of Environment and Mines. Only essential vehicles, such as fuel, medicine, foodstuffs, and passengers, are allowed to be carried, but only after strict inspection to ensure compliance with anti-smog standards.

Chief Traffic Officer Ammara Athar informed that in the last 24 hours, the traffic police fined 1,180 vehicles for emitting excessive smoke, collecting a total of Rs 10,000, 2.4 million fine. Besides, 98 trolleys loaded with sand without proper cover were fined Rs 2000. 200,000, and 42 poorly maintained, smoke-emitting vehicles were impounded at local police stations.

Special joint teams are focusing on vehicles that contribute to air pollution, particularly those that transport sand, cement, and other debris-prone materials, as well as those that emit smoke. This targeted approach aims to reduce emissions of dust and particulate matter, both of which contribute significantly to smog.

In support of these efforts, an AI-powered e-challan system has been enabled to automatically detect and fine violators, ensuring continuous monitoring of smog-emitting vehicles. .

Additionally, police officers are conducting awareness sessions in schools, colleges, bus stations and public offices to sensitize citizens on the importance of reducing pollution.

CTO Ammara Athar appealed to the public to support these efforts, stressing that collective commitment is necessary to achieve clean air in the city. He also appealed to the transporters to follow the anti-smog guidelines of the government highlighting the importance of these measures for public health.