LAHORE, October 13, 2026: The Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has intensified its province-wide crackdown on environmental pollution, targeting industrial units, brick kilns, plastic-related violations, smoke-emitting commercial establishments and improper waste disposal ahead of the smog season.
According to the department’s latest 24-hour enforcement report, inspection teams examined 233 industrial units and 434 brick kilns across Punjab. Authorities demolished 11 industrial and brick kiln units, sealed another 16 facilities, registered cases against environmental law violators and imposed fines amounting to hundreds of thousands of rupees.
Crackdown on Plastic Pollution
The environmental department also conducted inspections at 198 locations across the province, confiscating 2,519 kilograms of substandard plastic. Financial penalties were imposed on those found violating environmental regulations.
Action Against Smoke-Emitting Commercial Establishments
Enforcement teams inspected 145 barbecue restaurants and commercial cooking establishments to assess smoke emissions and environmental compliance.
Nine establishments were sealed for violations, while suction hoods were installed at 79 locations as part of measures to reduce smoke emissions and improve air quality.
17 Tonnes of Hospital Waste Seized
During field enforcement operations, environmental authorities also seized 17 tonnes of hospital waste.
Officials announced stricter action against individuals and businesses involved in unlawful handling and disposal of medical waste, citing environmental and public health concerns.
Strict Monitoring of Illegal Dumping Sites in Lahore
In Lahore, the environmental department issued strict instructions to relevant authorities to prevent fires and smoke emissions at illegal waste dumping sites.
EPA Director General Abdullah Nayyar Sheikh directed officials to strengthen monitoring of unauthorized dumping locations and ensure accountability among departments responsible for enforcement.
Authorities warned that incidents involving the burning of illegally dumped waste would not be tolerated and that violators would face legal action.
Drone and Night Surveillance Intensified
Despite weak wind conditions, the department has maintained its enforcement operations against major pollution sources.
Specialized drone squads, night enforcement teams and Hawk Eye field squads are continuing inspections and surveillance across the province.
The EPA reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward environmental violations, emphasizing that action against industrial pollution, brick kiln emissions, improper waste disposal and smoke-producing commercial establishments would continue without discrimination throughout the smog prevention campaign.
