Lahore: In a bid to control expected smog during the winters, the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has decided to shut down the kilns operating on conventional technology from October 15 to December 31, 2019, a news source reported. Furthermore, the agency also announced that factories and mills found emitting smoke will also be sealed.
To keep the threat of at bay, the EPA made it mandatory for brick kilns to convert to zigzag technology – a method that ensures reduction in smoke emission. Reportedly, only a limited number of kiln owners have shifted their units to the recommended technology. According to a source, owners of only 200 kilns, out of the total 10,000 kilns in operation, have converted to the zigzag technology.
Responding to the ban announcement, Bhatta Association has requested the EPA to extend the ban by November to save the kiln owners from heavy financial losses.
In addition to banning the kilns, the EPA has decided to take action against vehicles causing pollution. Furthermore, the agency has decided to install a monitoring system to keep an eye on pollution levels in the province.
