LAHORE:The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) detected 2,675 environmental violations across the province during the last seven days through modern surveillance cameras and drones as part of an intensified crackdown on smog-related activities.
According to a PSCA spokesperson on Thursday, 1,398 fines were imposed and 834 warnings were issued for violations of smog standard operating procedures (SOPs). Special surveillance teams have been formed to monitor compliance with government directives on major roads and key locations across Punjab, including Lahore.
Giving a breakdown of the operations, the authority identified 1,240 smoke-emitting vehicles, which were subjected to e-challans and other legal actions. Additionally, 1,362 vehicles transporting construction material without protective tarpaulins were intercepted.
The spokesperson stated that 146 violations involving smoke emissions from barbecues and chimneys were recorded, resulting in 134 warnings. Furthermore, 16 cases of industrial pollution were detected, with three leading to warnings and 13 referred to relevant departments. Six incidents of waste burning were also identified, resulting in one warning and five referrals to concerned departments.
The spokesperson emphasized that joint operations are continuing in coordination with relevant departments to strictly enforce smog SOPs. Modern cameras and drone technology are being fully utilized to continuously monitor activities contributing to environmental pollution. Meanwhile, citizens have been urged to report any activities contributing to smog and air pollution directly to the Emergency Helpline 15.