Lahore: The Punjab Police has intensified its efforts to combat smog and protect the environment under the directive of Inspector General of Police Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar. In the past 24 hours, the police registered 49 cases and arrested 18 individuals as part of a broader crackdown on smog across various districts, including Lahore. More than 1.2 million rupees in fines were levied against 641 people, while 151 individuals received warnings.

According to Punjab Police, the recent operations targeted multiple violations, including nine cases of crop residue burning, 556 vehicles emitting excessive smoke, three industrial activities, 37 brick kiln violations, and five other offenses. This year, a total of 3,168 offenders have been apprehended, with 2,539 cases registered. Additionally, 34,427 people have been fined over 86 million rupees, and 6,159 individuals have been warned.

In the last 24 hours, authorities issued challans to 6,793 vehicles for emitting excessive smoke, with 698 vehicles impounded. Over the year, 794,310 vehicles have been challaned, 164,781 impounded, and 10,033 fitness certificates suspended. Dr. Anwar has underscored the importance of a rigorous anti-smog campaign, advocating for zero tolerance and swift action against violators, particularly in highways, industrial areas, and agricultural zones.