RAWALPINDI, Aug 27 (APP):The anti-smog campaign is in full swing as Punjab Transport Authority (PTA) has taken a series of actions against smoke-emitting and unfit vehicles. On the instructions of the Provincial Transport Minister, Bilal Akbar Khan, the transport department has further intensified the campaign across the province to combat the prevailing challenge of smog. Special teams were formed in all the districts to take action against vehicles emitting smoke. …
Anti smog campaign, unfit vehicles imposed Rs.7.2 million fines
RAWALPINDI, Aug 27 (APP):The anti-smog campaign is in full swing as Punjab Transport Authority (PTA) has taken a series of actions against smoke-emitting and unfit vehicles. On the instructions of the Provincial Transport Minister, Bilal Akbar Khan, the transport department has further intensified the campaign across the province to combat the prevailing challenge of smog.
Special teams were formed in all the districts to take action against vehicles emitting smoke. As a result of consistent monitoring, a number smoke smoke-emitting vehicles, and mechanically unfit and uncertified vehicles have been challenged and fined Rs. 7.2 million.
According to the details received from Rawalpindi’s PR Directorte on Tuesday, the secretary of PTA has issued reports on the action from RTAs of all districts, according to which more than 6800 vehicles were inspected from August 1 to August 25. During the campaign, 3272 smoke-emitting vehicles were challenged, 998 vehicles were impounded and 2304 vehicles running without fitness certificates were also challenged.
Provincial Secretary Transport, Ahmad Javed Qazi said that the teams of the transport department were active in the field to improve the transportation system in the province.
“Strict action will be taken against violators”, he said adding that about 2300 vehicles were challaned for overloading and 1786 vehicles were challaned for running without a route permit and 2408 vehicles were also challaned for charging excess fare. Moreover, 1038 vehicles with LPG cylinders and 929 illegal motorcycle rickshaws were also challenged.
“So far, fines of more than 1.5 crore rupees have been imposed during the ongoing operation”, he said.
The minister while appreciating the ongoing efforts of the transport department to combat smog, has directed to continue the campaign without any pressure in all the districts of the province in a more organized manner.
In a statement, he said that the campaign aims to improve our environment and people’s lives. These smoke-emitting vehicles are responsible for increasing smog and damaging people’s health, so citizens should also avoid driving smoke-emitting vehicles.
“In the light of the orders of CM Maryam Nawaz, all steps will be taken to remedy the smog”, he said.
