Lahore: The Punjab government has launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at significantly reducing air pollution in Lahore by 2028, as outlined in a progress review meeting overseen by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the meeting detailed ongoing efforts under the guidance of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to address key environmental challenges, including smog reduction and air quality improvement. Notable plans include the introduction of electric bikes, vehicles, and buses, and the implementation of stringent fines for smoke-emitting motorcycles identified via Safe City cameras.
Efforts to reduce air pollution are supported by legislation and enforcement initiatives, which include the establishment of 100 Vehicle Inspection and Certification Stations (VICS) in Lahore. The government targets lowering the Air Quality Index from 100 PM to 70 PM by 2028, acknowledging motorcycles as major pollution contributors.
Additional measures discussed involve enhancing public awareness, adopting successful pollution control models from Bangladesh and China, and ongoing operations against encroachments and environmental law violations. An app is also in development to coordinate between various departments effectively.
The meeting also covered improvements in the education and health sectors, with plans to launch Middle and Matric Tech programs in 500 schools across Punjab and to ensure that 40% of workers in education and awareness roles are women.