Lahore: On the directions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, strict action has been initiated against dust emissions from construction activities in Lahore as part of the government’s comprehensive measures to control air pollution and further improve the Air Quality Index (AQI). According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab has issued notices to the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), directing it to ensure effective dust pollution control measures at all under-construction roads, infrastructure projects, and other development schemes across Lahore.
The notices issued by the EPA require construction projects to take effective measures to prevent the emission of fugitive dust, ensure complete implementation of dust control SOPs, and strictly comply with environmental laws throughout construction activities. Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that any increase in air pollution caused by construction activities is unacceptable, emphasizing the government’s focus on controlling construction dust as part of efforts to improve the AQI and provide citizens with cleaner air.
She directed that mist sprinklers and effective water-sprinkling arrangements must be ensured at construction sites to prevent the spread of dust. Regular monitoring of compliance with dust control SOPs will be carried out, and contractors found violating the prescribed measures will face fines and legal action. Marriyum Aurangzeb further stated that sand, cement, soil, and other construction materials must be properly covered to prevent dust particles from entering the atmosphere.
A minimum 10-foot-high protective screen must be installed around construction sites to prevent dust from spreading onto roads, residential areas, and populated localities. Strict compliance with speed limits and dust-control requirements will be enforced for vehicles transporting soil, sand, and construction debris. Strict action will also be taken against those who spill soil or construction debris on roads and cause dust pollution.
Non-compliance with environmental SOPs will result in fines, suspension of construction activities, and legal proceedings. Marriyum Aurangzeb reiterated that, in line with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision, all major sources of pollution are being controlled to provide the people of Punjab with clean air. She underscored that protection of the environment and improvement of air quality remain among the government’s top priorities, with all relevant departments and institutions mobilized to ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws and dust pollution control measures.