Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) has decided to suspend driving licenses of motorists operating smoke-emitting vehicles, officials said.
According to CTO Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi, driving licenses as well as route permits of commercial vehicles will also be suspended as part of strict measures to protect public health and ensure safety. He added that tough action is necessary to control environmental pollution in the city.
The CTO said that entry of uncovered dumpers and tractor trolleys carrying soil, sand, and crush material has been banned in Lahore.
Legal cases are being registered against violators. During the current fiscal year, more than 114,378 smoke-emitting vehicles have been fined.
He further said that under the ongoing smog prevention campaign, 1,401 cases have been registered, while action has been taken against 53,599 vehicles carrying uncovered construction material. Moreover, 188,374 unfit and dilapidated vehicles have also been targeted.
CTO Lahore said special crackdowns are underway at mines and construction sites, and no tractor trolley will be allowed to operate without proper covering and safety measures. DSPs are conducting checks at all entry and exit points of the city.
He added that an artificial intelligence-based system is also being used to detect and fine smoke-emitting vehicles.
Multiple government and semi-government departments have been issued letters for vehicle fitness improvement, and a zero-tolerance policy against pollution will continue.
