Strict action ordered against violators of anti-smog parameters

LAHORE: Commissioner Lahore Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that awareness campaigns should be initiated for the citizens to use face masks to protect them effects of smog. He said that a comprehensive strategy should be adopted for this purpose and mask wearing should be made mandatory under the special programme.

He said this while chairing a meeting to review the progress of anti-smog measures here on Monday. The report of the action taken against the burning of crop residues was presented in the meeting. He directed that strict action will be taken against the violators of anti-smog parameters. Commissioner Lahore said that cases were also registered while taking action on six industrial units in North Lahore and Mahmood Booti area. He directed that all DCs of Lahore division must ensure the implementation of anti-smog measures. Commissioner Lahore said that the DCs Nankana and Sheikhupura must make the monitoring stricter and take immediate action against those who set crops on fire.

During the anti-smog operations, challans were issued to 16,812 vehicles and a fine of Rs30.29 million was also imposed. The commissioner was told in the briefing that 7,733 vehicles and 1,760 uncover trolleys etc have been impounded in anti-smog operations. Fitness certificates of 12,971 vehicles were checked at general hold-ups during anti-smog operations and vehicles emitting smoke are being impounded in collaboration with Excise Department. MCL, LDA and district administration jointly conducted anti-encroachment operation at 32 busiest points of the city.

The commissioner said that better flow of traffic will be ensured by eliminating encroachments at the busiest points. He said that citizens can contact for smog complaints and information on helpline number 042 111 425 725, WhatsApp number 03289491760 and social media accounts. Commissioner said that the citizens should report the factors that caused smog on the given contact numbers and action will be taken within 24 hours.