Islamabad: The Punjab Police, under the directive of Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar, has ramped up its efforts to combat smog and environmental degradation across the province, including in Lahore, with strict actions being enforced against the burning of stubble and crop residues.

According to Punjab Police, the intensified crackdown over the last 24 hours led to 22 new cases being registered for smog-related violations, resulting in several arrests, fines for five individuals, and surety bonds collected from 3,925 persons. Throughout the year, the police have registered a total of 758 cases against those responsible for causing smog through prohibited burnings. To date, the campaign has seen 607 arrests and fines imposed on 282 violators, while thousands have been compelled to submit surety bonds as a deterrent against further violations.

In Lahore alone, 24 individuals have been arrested as part of this initiative, with 17 new cases registered in the recent push. The IG Punjab has ordered that the crackdown be extended to highways, industrial areas, and other critical locations, emphasizing the need for strict enforcement against high smoke-emitting vehicles and industrial activities contributing to air pollution. Dr. Anwar has instructed the use of Safe City camera systems to bolster monitoring and ensure that factory and kiln owners adhere to environmental regulations, underlining a zero-tolerance policy for any actions exacerbating the smog crisis.