The Punjab government has decided to ban the production of petrol-powered motorcycle rickshaws to fight pollution and smog. This move is part of a larger plan to gradually phase out petrol motorcycles across the province. The cabinet committee on Anti-Smog, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, approved these steps to protect public health and encourage the use of cleaner, greener vehicles throughout Punjab.
Shift Towards Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
All government departments in Punjab will now be required to purchase only electric or hybrid vehicles and motorcycles in the future. This policy aims to reduce emissions from public and private fleets. Officials believe that by switching to cleaner alternatives, air quality will gradually improve. The government is focused on promoting environmentally friendly options and reducing reliance on petrol-powered vehicles to curb smog and environmental hazards.
Ban on Washing Vehicles at Home
A complete ban has been imposed on washing vehicles at home using water. This measure is intended to save water and prevent unnecessary pollution. Officials have also decided to introduce colour-coded waste bins similar to developed countries, which will help manage waste more effectively. Strict penalties will be applied for burning plastic or other toxic materials, emphasizing that harming public health or the environment will not be tolerated.
Also Read: Major Punjab City Announces New Rule for Rickshaws
Testing Workshops for Smoke-Emitting Vehicles
To control smoke-emitting vehicles, Punjab will establish permanent testing workshops across the province. These workshops will monitor vehicle emissions and ensure compliance with environmental standards. Officials stressed that strict inspections and penalties will be in place to prevent violations. These steps are part of the broader anti-smog strategy, ensuring that vehicles meet required standards before they are allowed on the roads, protecting citizens from harmful pollutants.
Smog War Room and Air Quality Monitoring
| Initiative | Current Status | Target / Goal | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air-Quality Monitoring Systems | 41 operational in 18 districts | 100 additional sensors by next year | Expanding coverage for better data |
| Smog War Room | Established at the Safe City Authority | Continuous monitoring | Coordinates anti-smog measures |
| Industrial Unit Action | 450 units demolished | Ongoing inspections | Rs230 million fines imposed |
| Brick Kilns | 2,200 demolished, 2,336 sealed | Complete compliance | Reduce smoke emissions province-wide |