LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has said 2025 has proved to be a year of significant reduction in smog and marked improvement in air quality as a result of environment-friendly initiatives undertaken by the provincial government.
Due to her focused attention, Lahore recorded a noticeable improvement in the Air Quality Index for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, while Punjab emerged as the top-performing province in environmental protection. According to official data, the average level of particulate matter in Pakistan decreased by 8.7 per cent, with Punjab witnessing a substantial 33.2 per cent reduction. Environmental enforcement also intensified, with over 81,000 visits and more than 113,000 inspections conducted during 2025. Authorities issued over 7,900 notices, sealed thousands of industrial units, registered more than 2,300 FIRs, and imposed fines exceeding Rs19 crore 20 lakh.
Additionally, more than 419,000 kilograms of hazardous materials were confiscated. Strict monitoring of brick kilns, factories, and construction sites was ensured under special directives, while over 2,200 water recyclers and mist sprinklers were installed, helping reduce particulate matter levels in Lahore from 102 to 89. The use of anti-smog guns and effective measures against crop residue burning further contributed to improved air quality, supported by 67 active water bowser units deployed for rapid response. Significant improvements were also recorded in cities including Rawalpindi, Multan, Bahawalpur, Lodhran, and Mandi Bahauddin, where better air quality indicators were observed. Rawalpindi, in particular, ranked among the cleanest major cities after PM2.5 levels dropped below 50.
A report highlighted that for the first time, a comprehensive anti-smog strategy integrating modern technology, digital monitoring and field enforcement was implemented. Measures such as transitioning brick kilns to zigzag technology, vehicle emission testing and stricter control of construction activities played a key role in reducing pollution levels. Quick response units proved effective in curbing crop burning incidents.
Commending the efforts of the Environmental Protection Agency and all relevant departments, Maryam expressed confidence that Punjab is on its way to becoming a model province in environmental protection and vowed that in 2026, the province will surpass its own performance record in this sector.
