Punjab has stepped up its action against air pollution in Punjab to protect public health and
improve air quality. Over the past 24 hours, environmental teams have inspected factories, brick
kilns, commercial kitchens, and other places releasing harmful smoke and dust. Officials used
drones and Hawk Eye squads to identify violations and take action against those breaking
environmental laws.

Authorities inspected 284 industrial units across Punjab and issued 28 smog notices and two
other notices. Eleven industrial units were demolished, while seven were sealed for violating
environmental regulations. Officials also imposed fines worth Rs 1.46 million on businesses
found breaking the rules.

Brick kilns were another major focus of the campaign. Teams inspected 439 kilns and issued 13
smog notices. Fourteen kilns were demolished, and five were sealed. Authorities also registered
12 cases and imposed fines worth Rs 1.9 million for environmental violations.

Officials also inspected 196 locations connected with plastic products. They issued 35 notices
and sealed eight locations. During these inspections, teams seized 607 kilograms of
substandard plastic and imposed fines worth Rs 15,000.

The campaign also covered barbecue points and commercial kitchens that release smoke into
the air. Authorities checked 117 locations and issued 26 smog notices. Suction hoods were
installed at 66 locations to help control smoke emissions. Three locations were sealed, and
fines worth Rs 55,000 were imposed.

To reduce dust pollution, environmental teams inspected 23 locations and issued six notices.
Sprinklers were installed at four sites to help control dust, while officials imposed fines worth Rs
5,000.

Climate Watch data analysis indicated that slow winds could allow pollution to build up during
the early morning hours. Winds were expected to move at around five kilometres per hour
between midnight and 8 a.m. Stronger daytime winds could help spread pollutants and improve
conditions.

Director General of Environment Abdullah Nayer Sheikh is supervising these enforcement
activities across Punjab. Authorities have stated that action will continue against those violating
environmental laws. Penalties include fines, sealing, demolition, and legal proceedings.

Source: Official Punjab Environment Department update

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