Lahore: The Punjab government has launched a massive crackdown against brick kilns, along with industries and vehicles, in order to control the smog situation in the province, a news source reported.
The provincial government sealed around 356 brick kilns and imposed heavy fines on account of violations. Lahore Division Commissioner Asif Bilal Lodhi stated that they were tightening the noose around the sources responsible for atmospheric pollution that were triggering smog in Lahore and its adjoining areas.
The commissioner revealed that the provincial government is following a zero tolerance policy against atmospheric pollution. He added that they would not accept any negligence pertaining to the ongoing anti-smog drive.
Lodhi said that the local administration has imposed a total of PKR 821,000 as fines on brick kilns and industries found in violation of rules during the anti-smog drive. He added they have also conducted awareness activities in different areas of Lahore and other districts of the province.
According to sources, officials concerned imposed fines on 2,166 smoke-emitting vehicles. Meanwhile, Lodhi revealed, that brick kilns were fast converting to the new zig-zag technology following the crackdown and imposition of ban on the use of older technology.
Commissioner Lodhi has also instructed all deputy commissioners (DCs) to take strict action against those violating the ban on burning crop stubble in the fields. He directed the DCs to carry out the monitoring even on weekends and holidays, along with regularly submitting reports to his office.
