Driving licences of motorists operating smoke-emitting vehicles will be suspended, Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi announced on Friday, as authorities intensify efforts to curb smog and air pollution in the provincial capital.
Route permits of commercial vehicles found violating anti-smog regulations will also be suspended, the CTO said, adding that strict enforcement is essential to protect public health and the environment.
A traffic police spokesperson said 1,013 cases have been registered against violators as part of the ongoing crackdown. Special teams have been deployed at 12 entry and exit points of the city, alongside 45 dedicated enforcement teams carrying out inspections and action across Lahore.
Action has been taken this month against 3,649 smoke-emitting vehicles and 2,183 vehicles found causing environmental pollution, the spokesperson said. A further 6,820 unfit and poorly maintained vehicles were proceeded against for violating traffic and environmental regulations.
The entry of tractor-trolleys and dumpers carrying sand or soil without protective tarpaulin remains banned in the city. Shirazi said tractor-trolleys would not be permitted to operate without tarpaulin covers, water sprinkling, or other mandatory measures aimed at preventing the spread of dust and pollution.
The traffic police are also using an artificial intelligence-based system to detect smoke-emitting vehicles and issue e-challans, the CTO said.
Notices have been issued to government and semi-government organisations directing them to repair their smoke-emitting vehicles, with the CTO warning that strict legal action would follow for non-compliance.
