The Punjab government has taken a major step in tackling pollution by officially adding the ‘Polluter Pays Rules’ to the province’s environmental laws.
These rules hold individuals and organizations directly responsible for polluting air, water, or soil, with strict fines to be imposed on violators.
With this move, Punjab has become the first province in the country to implement a fully enforceable framework aimed at curbing environmental damage.
Authorities have promised tough action against those whose activities endanger public health.
To support enforcement, a digital monitoring system has been launched across 10 zones in the province. Each zone features an automated alert system called “Khabardar,” which will immediately inform authorities when pollution is detected.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) force will respond promptly to these alerts.
Every zone is assigned its own in-charge, along with inspection teams equipped with drones, special vehicles, and rapid-response tools.
The system will use artificial intelligence to track emissions from factories, kilns, and vehicles, instantly identifying when pollution levels go beyond legal limits. This will allow enforcement teams to take swift action on the ground.
Harsh penalties will also be imposed for illegal dumping of industrial waste into rivers or canals, burning garbage, or setting plastic waste on fire.
The government has allocated Rs250 million for the establishment of a new EPA Force headquarters, along with plans to expand environmental infrastructure.
A Green Credit Program will encourage the use of electric bikes, e-rickshaws, and super seeders to support cleaner transport and agriculture.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said that Punjab is adopting a fresh approach to environmental protection.
The plan includes projects like the Green School Program, more public green spaces, and stronger awareness campaigns focused on environmental education.