Punjab Government Unveils Rs. 3 Billion Smog Control Plan

The Government of Punjab has approved a Rs3 billion environmental protection initiative to tackle smog and worsening air pollution through the deployment of 30 modern fog cannon systems mounted on electric trucks. The advanced dust suppression equipment will be deployed in major urban centers and industrial zones to reduce particulate matter and improve overall air quality.

The project forms part of the province’s broader Clean Air and Climate Resilient Strategy, which focuses on sustainable urban management, pollution control, and climate adaptation measures. Officials stated that the fog cannon systems will help lower concentrations of hazardous airborne particles, particularly in cities that frequently experience severe smog episodes during winter months.

Under the Lahore Air Improvement Framework, Rs2.25 billion has been allocated for an integrated clean air program specifically targeting the provincial capital. A key component of this framework is the introduction of a Super Station System designed to identify pollution sources in real time, enabling data-driven decision-making and faster regulatory action.

The government is also implementing a “One City, One Policy” governance model to streamline environmental regulation and strengthen institutional coordination for air quality management. More than 50 modern air quality monitoring units have already been installed across Punjab, supported by an automated quality assurance system to ensure transparency and reliability of emissions data.

To further curb industrial pollution, authorities are activating a digital environmental monitoring system to track emissions and enforce compliance standards. Additional approvals include upgrading environmental laboratories, installing modern testing equipment, and establishing specialized forensic facilities for emissions analysis to strengthen regulatory enforcement.

An Environment and Climate Delivery Unit will also be established to oversee project implementation through a centralized digital dashboard, allowing real-time performance monitoring and accountability.

Provincial officials emphasized that these combined measures are intended not only to reduce smog levels but also to safeguard public health, enhance environmental governance, and promote long-term climate resilience across Punjab.