Punjab Fines 48,000+ Smoke-Emitting Vehicles in Smog Crackdown
In a decisive move to combat the province’s worsening air quality, the Punjab Traffic Police has fined over 48,000 smoke-emitting vehicles as part of a province-wide anti-smog crackdown. The campaign follows strict orders from Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore, issued under the directives of DIG Traffic Muhammad Waqas Nazir, targeting vehicles that violate environmental regulations.
Province-Wide Action Against Polluters
As smog levels continue to rise, the authorities have intensified enforcement efforts. Here’s a breakdown of actions taken so far:
| Action Taken | Volume |
| Total vehicles fined | 48,400+ |
| Smoke-emitting vehicles challaned (Nov) | 97,000+ |
| Motorcycles penalized for emissions | 10,000+ |
| Smoke-emitting vehicles impounded | 7,700+ |
| FIRs registered against smoke-emitting vehicles | 7 |
| Heavy fines imposed on soil-carrying trolleys | 2,100+ |
| Fitness certificates suspended | 10 |
| Route permits revoked for repeat violators | 16+ |
| Year-on-year increase in enforcement | 85% |
Officials noted that FIRs are being actively registered, and suspended vehicles include those transporting children in unsafe conditions amid the smog red alert.
Why This Matters
The crackdown is part of the provincial government’s broader strategy to reduce PM2.5 particulate emissions, a major contributor to Lahore’s hazardous air quality levels. Smog-related health issues have surged this year, prompting repeated school closures and mask mandates in major cities.
Authorities are also focusing on regular inspections, which they say are yielding effective results. Citizens are urged to maintain their vehicles properly and ensure compliance with environmental regulations to support ongoing efforts.
What’s Next?
- More roadside inspections are expected through winter.
- Permanent impounding and license cancellation for repeat offenders under review.
- Coordination with the Environment Protection Department to expand surveillance.
For more updates on smog-related policy changes and automotive news, visit PakWheels blog .
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