FAISALABAD: The Punjab government is rolling out a major upgrade to its environmental monitoring system by installing 100 air quality monitors across the province, a sharp rise from just three in the past.
During a media briefing, Punjab Secretary for Environment Protection and Climate Change, Silwat Saeed, shared that 60 monitors have already been set up, while the remaining 40 will be installed before the financial year ends.
“Our total target is 100 monitors, and the cost this year is estimated between Rs3 to Rs4 billion,” she said.
She noted that expanding from 3 to 100 monitors is a huge step forward. “This wouldn’t have been possible without extensive groundwork and strong support from international partners.”
Saeed also announced that starting next month, people will be able to access air quality information through a live dashboard. “Our air quality monitors are linked with IQAir, so people can get real-time data online,” she said.
She further explained that the department has introduced new technology by digitising industrial inspections. “Previously, inspectors had to physically visit industrial units. Now, with AI integration, we can detect emissions remotely and identify violations in real time.”
In addition, she said that 15 fog cannons have been placed in Lahore as part of a pilot run.