The Punjab authorities have decided to suspend the driving licences of motorists operating smoke-emitting vehicles as part of an intensified campaign to curb air pollution and reduce smog in Lahore. The decision was announced by Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi under the provincial government's anti-smog campaign launched on the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.
Commercial Vehicles Face Route Permit Suspension
As part of the new measures, commercial vehicles found violating emission standards will also face suspension of their route permits. The city traffic police have additionally banned the entry of tractor-trolleys and dumpers carrying sand, soil or other construction materials without proper tarpaulin covers, warning that legal action will be taken against violators.
Over 114,000 Vehicles Fined This Fiscal Year
Sharing details of the campaign, Shirazi said more than 114,000 smoke-emitting vehicles had been fined during the current fiscal year. He added that authorities had registered 1,401 cases under the anti-smog drive, taken action against over 53,000 vehicles transporting uncovered construction material, and penalised nearly 188,000 unfit vehicles.
AI-Based System to Identify Polluting Vehicles
He said the traffic police are using an artificial intelligence-based system to identify vehicles producing excessive emissions. Letters have also been sent to various government departments, asking them to ensure their official vehicle fleets meet environmental standards.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Ahead of Smog Season
The CTO said authorities would continue to follow a zero-tolerance policy against vehicles contributing to air pollution as Lahore prepares for the upcoming smog season.
