To combat the worsening smog in Lahore, the Punjab government announced a complete ban on the entry of heavy vehicles into the city for three days—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The measure aims to reduce pollution levels and improve air quality.
Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) of Lahore, Amara Athar, stated that DSPs would be deployed at 12 key exit and entry points of the city to enforce the ban. She emphasized that no heavy vehicles, including loader trolleys, would be allowed to enter Lahore during this period. Additionally, vehicles that are damaged or emit dangerous smoke without a valid fitness certificate will be barred from entry.
However, passenger vehicles, as well as those used for transporting medicines, essential food items, and passenger buses, are exempt from the restrictions. Amara Athar urged transporters to cooperate with the government’s efforts to reduce smog and help provide a healthier environment for the residents of Lahore. She stressed the importance of collective action to combat pollution and ensure its eradication.
Lahore Traffic Police has already initiated a crackdown against vehicles emitting excessive smoke. Thousands of vehicles, including heavy trucks, have been detained or fined for violating the smog-related restrictions. To further support the anti-smog drive, 41 dedicated anti-smog squads have been deployed.
In parallel, during a hearing on Friday, Lahore High Court (LHC) Justice Shahid Karim emphasized the need for stringent anti-smog measures, including halting construction activities and considering the closure of schools for three days a week in Lahore. He highlighted that gradual implementation of restrictions is essential for tackling the smog problem effectively.
The court also reviewed reports from the Environmental Commission, Punjab government, and the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) on actions taken to address smog. The judge raised concerns about the increasing pollution due to rising traffic and ordered the environment department to submit a detailed report on sugar mills and factories discharging contaminated water.
While the Punjab government reported a 45% reduction in pollution due to its efforts, Justice Karim warned that relaxation of measures could undo the progress made. He criticized the ongoing operation of brick kilns and called for action against negligent deputy commissioners.
Additionally, the judge ordered that all government vehicles undergo fitness checks within 10 days and urged the transport department to implement an e-tagging system integrated with AI and PITB software for monitoring vehicle fitness.
Justice Karim also expressed dissatisfaction with the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) for failing to comply with road cleaning schedules, threatening action against its CEO.
Despite these measures, Lahore remains one of the most polluted cities globally, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 222 on Friday. Areas like Raiwind recorded an AQI of 832, and other parts of the city, including near the US Consulate, Johar Town, Cantonment, and Mall Road, also reported dangerously high levels of pollution.
