Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz declares zero tolerance policy against industrial pollution
During the ongoing anti-smog operation, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted a major enforcement action, demolishing an industrial unit found responsible for serious pollution.
A suspect who broke the unit’s official seal twice in a single night has been arrested and a case has been registered at the industrial area police station.
During the operation, the authorities found a large quantity of carbon-filled sacks and other illegally stored materials. Several people who resisted the EPA team were also detained and their weapons were handed over to the police.
The unit had been repeatedly served with notices but failed to comply. Laboratory reports confirmed that the industrial activities caused severe air pollution. It also contained furnaces that were on fire at the time of the demolition.
Read: Punjab is choking on toxic smog
Punhab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has declared a zero tolerance policy against all entities contributing to pollution. Special surveillance teams of the Punjab government maintain round-the-clock surveillance.
Intelligence-based operations are intensified during the smog emergency. “Those who harm the environment will not be spared under any circumstances. Public health remains our top priority,” the statement said.
The government has promised to deal with the “industrial mafia” that breaks the seals with an iron fist. All activities harmful to public health will be prosecuted and operations will continue indiscriminately.
The decisive drive against industrial smog is underway and all industrial units have been urged to follow eco-friendly standard operating procedures.
