Key Takeaways
- Lahore Chief Traffic Officer announces suspension of driving licenses for violators.
- Special teams deployed at city entry and exit points to enforce anti-smog regulations.
- Over 1,000 cases registered against violators during current crackdown.
Lahore's Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi has announced that driving licenses of motorists operating smoke-emitting vehicles will be suspended as part of intensified efforts to control smog and air pollution in the provincial capital.
Route permits for commercial vehicles found violating anti-smog regulations will also be suspended, according to Shirazi. He emphasized the need for strict enforcement to protect public health and the environment.
The ban on tractor-trailers and dump trucks entering Lahore while carrying sand or soil without protective tarpaulin covers remains in effect, as per the CTO's statement.
Traffic police have registered 1,013 cases against violators during the ongoing anti-smog crackdown. An additional 45 dedicated teams are conducting inspections and taking action against offenders throughout Lahore.
According to a traffic police spokesperson, authorities had taken action against 3,649 smoke-emitting vehicles and 2,183 vehicles causing environmental pollution during the current month. Traffic police also proceeded against 6,820 unfit and poorly maintained vehicles for violating traffic and environmental regulations.
Shirazi highlighted that tractor-trailers would not be allowed to operate without tarpaulin covers, water sprinkling or other mandatory safety measures designed to prevent dust and pollution spread.
The CTO stated that traffic police were using an artificial intelligence-based system to detect smoke-emitting vehicles and issue electronic traffic tickets. Notices have also been issued to government and semi-government organizations, directing them to repair smoke-emitting vehicles.
He warned that strict legal action would be taken against organizations failing to comply with the new regulations.
