LAHORE: The Environment Protection Department (EPD) intensified operations to ensure environmental protection and launched a large-scale crackdown against industrial units in Shahdara and Bund Road, resulting in the sealing of five industrial units and four shopping units for violating environmental laws.
The Department took action against several units, including AS Dyeing, Asif Dyeing, Sikandar Steel, New Khan Steel, Zeeshan Plastic, Faisal Plastic, AJ Plastic, and Imad Plastic, shutting them down for non-compliance. During the operation, 670 vehicles were inspected, with 160 vehicles fined for causing pollution, amounting to a total penalty of Rs320,000.
All industrial units have been instructed to install modern filters to reduce emissions and pollution. Large-scale tree plantation drives are underway to curb carbon emissions. Additionally, 95% of traditional brick kilns have been upgraded to modern zigzag technology. Electric and hybrid buses are being introduced to promote low-emission vehicles. Solar energy projects are also progressing rapidly, alongside ongoing wet sweeping and water sprinkling operations across the city.
Public awareness campaigns regarding environmental protection are being conducted through educational and media platforms. Plastic bags under 75 microns have been strictly prohibited to safeguard public health.
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb stated that decades of environmental degradation cannot be reversed overnight. However, the government is working tirelessly on short-, mid-, and long-term plans. She emphasized that it will take 8 to 10 years of consistent efforts to resolve environmental issues effectively. These measures reflect the Punjab government’s commitment to providing its citizens with a clean and healthy environment.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
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