Authorities also demolished six brick kilns as part of efforts to improve air quality and curb hazardous emissions across the province.
The large-scale anti-pollution operation was launched on the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz as the provincial government stepped up enforcement of environmental laws amid growing concerns over deteriorating air quality.
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According to official details, environmental protection teams inspected 240 industrial units and 429 brick kilns across Punjab. More than Rs26 million in fines were imposed on establishments found violating environmental regulations.
Crackdown on Industrial Pollution
As part of the ongoing anti-smog campaign, authorities took action against industrial units allegedly contributing to air pollution through harmful emissions. Eleven industrial facilities were sealed for environmental violations, while six brick kilns were demolished and four others were shut down.
The inspections are aimed at controlling industrial smoke, reducing harmful emissions and ensuring compliance with environmental protection standards.
Banned Plastic Seized in Punjab
The provincial government's crackdown also targeted the use of substandard and prohibited plastic products.
Environmental teams confiscated 896 kilograms of banned plastic material during inspections. Twelve locations were sealed over violations of plastic regulations, while notices were issued to several other businesses.
Commercial Kitchens, Barbecue Outlets Face Inspections
Authorities also intensified efforts to control smoke emissions from commercial kitchens and barbecue outlets.
A total of 119 commercial kitchens and barbecue points were inspected during the operation. Five locations were sealed for violations, while suction hoods were installed at 69 establishments to reduce smoke emissions.
Night Surveillance to Monitor Pollution
To prevent dust pollution, environmental teams inspected 22 locations and issued 15 notices to those found violating environmental standards.
The Punjab government has also activated drone surveillance teams, night squads and Hawk Eye monitoring teams to identify pollution sources and ensure stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.
Farmers Urged to Avoid Crop Burning
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said environmental protection teams were continuously working in the field to ensure compliance with environmental laws.
She urged farmers across Punjab to avoid burning crop residues, warning against practices that contribute to air pollution and smog.
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The provincial government has further tightened monitoring as weak local winds are reducing the dispersion of pollutants, increasing the risk of worsening air quality.
Authorities say the ongoing anti-smog operation will continue to target industrial emissions, illegal plastic use, smoke-producing commercial establishments and other sources of environmental pollution.