LAHORE:The Local Government Department has directed all authorities concerned to intensify field-level operations across the province in view of the smog season, with a focus on controlling air pollution, reducing environmental hazards, and ensuring a clean and healthy environment for citizens.
On the directions of the LG secretary, a special letter has been issued to all local governments and Suthra Punjab agencies, directing them to ensure effective and practical measures for the prevention and control of smog. The letter calls for an intensified crackdown against individuals involved in burning solid waste and strict action against violators in accordance with the law.
It further directed that water sprinkling on major roads, highways, and other sensitive locations be carried out effectively to control dust and reduce air pollution. Field operations against encroachments contributing to smog and environmental pollution are also to be accelerated, while all vehicles transporting sand and soil must be properly covered with tarpaulins to prevent the spread of dust during transportation. The department directed strict monitoring of construction sites and identified hotspots generating excessive dust and instructed the authorities concerned to take immediate action against violations.
Special emphasis has also been placed on preventing illegal tree cutting and ensuring the protection of the existing green cover across the province.The letter further calls for the launch of an effective public awareness campaign to educate citizens about smog prevention, discourage the burning of waste, promote cleanliness, and encourage environmentally responsible practices. All local governments have also been directed to promptly update daily field performance, sanitation operations, and smog-control activities on the PMDFC dashboard to ensure effective monitoring and timely assessment of field operations.
Local Government Secretary directed officers to personally monitor field staff and sanitation teams on a daily basis, regularly review their performance and ensure that no negligence or laxity is tolerated in the implementation of smog-control measures.
The LG Department has reiterated that all relevant authorities must work in a coordinated manner and maintain effective field operations to control smog and air pollution while ensuring the protection of the environment and the provision of a cleaner and healthier environment for the people of Punjab.
