Action against pollution-generating units intensified
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On the special directions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, a province-wide crackdown against illegal industrial units responsible for smog, air pollution, and threats to public health has been intensified. The Chief Minister has directed authorities to take strict action against illegal units operating in major cities, industrial zones, and residential areas without discrimination. Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) teams have been directed to launch a grand operation down to the Union Council level to ensure the elimination of all activities contributing to smog and environmental pollution. She emphasized that the Punjab Government is following a zero-tolerance policy against those endangering public health. All activities causing smog and environmental degradation remain strictly prohibited, and any violations will result in firm legal action. Illegal units will be demolished immediately, and criminal cases will be registered against those responsible. The Senior Provincial Minister urged the public to cooperate with government efforts and advised owners of illegal units to voluntarily cease operations. Otherwise, strict enforcement measures, including demolition of the units, will be carried out. She reiterated that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has issued clear instructions that no illegal plant or pollution-generating unit will be spared. Marriyum Aurangzeb further stated that the elimination of smog remains one of the Chief Minister’s top priorities and that indiscriminate action against violators will continue across Punjab.