The Punjab government has resolved to initiate a robust crackdown on illegal industrial units operating within residential areas of Lahore and other parts of the province. This move is part of a broader anti-smog campaign aimed at reducing air pollution and improving environmental conditions.
In a high-level meeting focused on anti-smog measures, chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, authorities were instructed to take immediate action against all unauthorized industrial operations in residential neighborhoods. The government also decided to revoke all existing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) issued to such units and to start departmental proceedings against officials responsible for granting these unlawful approvals.
The meeting highlighted that industries involved in activities such as plastic burning, fat melting, marble cutting, and woodworking have significantly contributed to environmental harm, posing serious health risks to the public. Minister Aurangzeb emphasized that emissions from these units are linked to respiratory diseases and long-term illnesses, including cancer.
A scientific survey has identified 5,206 illegal industrial units in Lahore, with 4,514 situated in residential zones. These units have been classified into five categories based on their pollution levels, ranging from extremely high to very low emitters. The government plans to relocate these industries in phases to designated industrial zones outside residential areas.
To facilitate this transition, the government has committed to providing land at subsidized rates along with necessary infrastructure such as electricity, water supply, roads, and waste treatment facilities. This approach aims to ensure a smooth and sustainable relocation process.
Additionally, the meeting approved the establishment of a permanent implementation committee. This committee will include representatives from the Environment Department, Local Government, Police, Lahore Development Authority (LDA), Industries Department, and the Board of Revenue. It will be responsible for monitoring timelines, overseeing legal reforms, and managing grievance redressal mechanisms.
Officials revealed that over 50 stakeholders were consulted and 14 consultative meetings were held to finalize the relocation strategy, which is divided into short-, medium-, and long-term phases. Minister Aurangzeb reiterated that the crackdown will be enforced impartially, stressing that industrial pollution is severely damaging public health and quality of life.
She concluded by stating that the initiative’s ultimate goal is to transform Punjab into a cleaner, safer, and environmentally sustainable province.
