Anti-smog initiative top priority: commissioner

LAHORE: Commissioner Lahore division Zaid bin Maqsood Friday said anti-smog initiative is the top priority of the Punjab government.

The governor stated this while chairing meeting regarding anti-smog planning. DG EPA Punjab Imran Hamid briefed the meeting on the working and action plan for anti-smog measures. The commissioner stressed the need of launching a precise anti-smog action with solid planning at administration level. He said before and after air quality index data of important squares and school bus pick-up and drop points should be compiled. He said the emission of vehicles of the entire Punjab must be checked before entering Lahore. The commissioner said carbon emission report must be prepared before road design change in traffic choking points. He formed a committee for action and analysis according to the root causes of anti-smog and said all departments are working to combat smog. The commissioner said there will be regular committee meetings for communication and frequency. He said all administrations will take anti-smog actions under the planning of Environment Department. The commissioner said installation of independent air quality instruments will provide real-time data and data-driven action plans. He said commercial vehicles are among the major causes of smog.