Violators in all districts face strict punishment, government continues efforts to eliminate smog
The Punjab Transport Department has launched an extensive crackdown on smoke-emitting and unfit vehicles as part of efforts to curb smog in the provincial capital and surrounding areas. A detailed report issued by the department highlights a series of large-scale enforcement actions against violators, including vehicle owners, drivers, and transporters.
Bilal Akbar Khan, Punjab Transport Minister, has directed officials to continue a 24-hour crackdown on smoke-emitting and unfit vehicles without exception. “No leniency will be shown towards vehicles emitting smoke or operating without valid fitness certificates,” the minister asserted.
He urged vehicle owners to ensure timely maintenance to prevent environmental damage and support efforts to combat smog. “To control smog, it is essential that owners repair and maintain their vehicles on time,” the minister added.
According to the report, more than 90,000 vehicles have undergone inspection at the Vehicle Inspection and Certification System (VICS) stations across Lahore this year. Of these, approximately 55,000 vehicles met the required standards and were issued official fitness certificates.
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The department’s operations also resulted in strict action against violators. More than 8,000 smoke-emitting vehicles were fined, while over 5,500 vehicles were taken off the road for failing to comply with environmental standards. Additionally, around 3,500 vehicles operating without valid fitness certificates were also seized by authorities.
In efforts to curb overloading, the report added that over 14,000 vehicles were fined for violating load regulations. Cumulatively, the department imposed fines totaling Rs85 million during the ongoing crackdown.
The enforcement drive has also led to legal action, with 2,200 vehicles facing registered cases for multiple violations and 1,800 drivers and vehicle owners taken into custody.
The minister further warned that violators across all districts would face strict punitive measures, adding that the provincial government would continue to take every necessary step to eliminate smog at its root.
The ongoing operation is part of Punjab’s broader environmental protection campaign aimed at mitigating the annual rise in smog levels ahead of the winter season.
