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LAHORE, Nov 16 (APP):The Punjab government’s “Smog-Free Punjab” awareness campaign is beginning to show positive results, with a notable reduction in air pollution across the province.
On Sunday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Lahore, the provincial capital, was recorded at 291, while in the Indian capital Delhi, the pollution levels were far worse, reaching an alarming 647.
According to official sources, teams from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted inspections of vehicles and 102 brick kilns along the motorway. The inspection revealed that 87 of these kilns were operating in compliance with the zigzag technology, which prevents the emission of black smoke. However, one kiln was found emitting black smoke and was fined Rs. 100,000, while 14 other kilns were found to be inactive.
Interestingly, no kilns were sealed or demolished on Sunday, as per the latest report.
In addition to kiln inspections, the provincial authorities have been implementing various measures to tackle pollution. Water sprinkling is being carried out twice a day on roads in cities, which has helped reduce airborne dust particles. Traffic police are also actively enforcing regulations against vehicles emitting excessive smoke.
Construction activities are also under strict monitoring, with special checks being carried out on machinery, soil piles, and excavation sites to minimize the spread of pollution.
Authorities have expressed optimism that these ongoing efforts will continue to improve air quality across Punjab, helping to combat the region’s air pollution crisis.