Lahore: Punjab Police, under the leadership of Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar, is intensifying efforts to combat smog and safeguard the environment across the province. Operations are underway to address various smog-causing factors, with significant actions taking place in districts including Lahore.

According to Punjab Police, 1,074 individuals have been arrested this year as part of smog crackdown operations across multiple districts, resulting in the registration of 1,351 cases. In Lahore alone, 73 individuals were apprehended, leading to 186 cases. The police have been particularly vigilant against the burning of crop residues, a major contributor to smog. In the last 24 hours, eight individuals were arrested for setting fire to fields, resulting in 20 new cases. Additionally, fines have been levied on five individuals, with ongoing legal proceedings against others. This year, 793 cases have been registered for burning crop residues, with 615 arrests, 295 fines, and surety bonds collected from 3,925 individuals.

Efforts to curb vehicular emissions are also underway. In the past 24 hours, 4,684 vehicles were ticketed for excessive smoke emissions, leading to 468 impoundments and the suspension of four fitness certificates. Throughout the year, over 700,000 vehicles have faced fines for high emissions, with 154,086 impounded and more than 10,000 fitness certificates suspended.

IG Dr. Usman Anwar has instructed the police to intensify the crackdown on highways and industrial areas, emphasizing the use of Safe City cameras for monitoring and swift action against smoke-emitting vehicles. A strict, zero-tolerance policy has been mandated for factory and brick kiln owners and other offenders violating smog regulations.