The Punjab anti-smog operation continued across the province on October 17, 2026, as
authorities worked to reduce pollution and protect public health. Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI)
was reported at 185. Morning wind speeds were around 3 kilometres per hour and were
expected to reach 10 kilometres per hour by 2 pm.

The operation is taking place under the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz
Sharif. Government departments are working day and night to control pollution before the smog
season becomes more severe. Teams are using smog guns in highly polluted areas and
spraying water on major roads to reduce dust in the air.

During the previous 24 hours, inspection teams checked 246 industrial units across Punjab.
Four units received notices for violations and 17 received smog notices. One unit was
demolished and six others were sealed. Authorities also imposed fines totalling Rs 1.015 million.
Officials inspected 374 brick kilns to check compliance with environmental rules. Three kilns
received smog notices, two were demolished and five were sealed. A case was also registered
against one kiln, while fines of Rs 500,000 were imposed.

The campaign also targeted low-quality plastic and smoke from commercial cooking
businesses. Teams inspected 179 locations and seized 1,602 kilograms of plastic. They also
checked 107 barbecue and commercial cooking sites, where suction hoods were installed at 54
locations to help control smoke.

Authorities continued efforts to reduce construction dust and stop the burning of waste. The
Local Government Department issued 485 notices against burning solid waste, tyres, rubber
and plastic. Water was sprayed along 1,560 kilometres of roads to reduce dust across the
province.

Punjab also reported 28 actions against illegal tree cutting and planted 917 new trees. Officials
organised 403 public awareness activities to encourage people to protect the environment.
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb urged residents, farmers and factory owners to
support the campaign. The government is encouraging everyone to follow environmental rules
and help create cleaner air for communities across Punjab.

Source: Punjab government anti-smog operation update

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