Lahore to suspend licences of drivers operating smoke-emitting vehicles

Lahore traffic authorities have decided to suspend the driving licences of motorists operating smoke-emitting vehicles, while route permits of commercial vehicles found violating environmental regulations will also be suspended as part of efforts to combat air pollution.

Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore, Syed Abdul Rahim, said strict measures were necessary to protect public health and ensure road safety.

He stated that the entry of dumpers and tractor-trolleys carrying soil and sand without protective covers had already been prohibited within the city.

According to the CTO, traffic police have issued challan tickets to 114,378 smoke-emitting vehicles during the ongoing anti-smog campaign.

He added that 1,401 criminal cases had also been registered in connection with violations of environmental regulations.

The campaign has also targeted vehicles transporting sand and other materials without tarpaulin covers. 

Authorities took action against 53,599 such vehicles for contributing to pollution through the release of dust and debris.

In addition, enforcement teams proceeded against 188,374 vehicles found to be unfit for the road or in a deteriorated condition.

CTO Lahore siad these vehicles posed both environmental and safety concerns.

Syed Abdul Rahim said a special crackdown had been carried out at mining and excavation sites to ensure compliance with environmental standards. 

He stressed that tractor-trolleys transporting soil, sand and other materials would not be allowed to operate without tarpaulin covers, water-sprinkling measures and other required safety precautions.

The CTO further stated that all divisional police officers were conducting special operations at key entry and exit points across Lahore. 

He added that letters had been sent to several government and semi-government institutions, urging them to repair smoke-emitting vehicles and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Reporter: Abid Chaudhry