Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb made a surprise visit to Kasur to oversee the demolition of kilns operating without Zigzag technology in the district, reported 24NewsHD TV channel. Accompanied by the Environmental Protection Department team, Marriyum Aurangzeb made it clear that the Punjab government was aimed at combating environmental pollution.
Later talking to the media, the Senior Minister said kilns and factories causing smog and environmental pollution will be shut down.
She stated that strict action would be taken against all sources of smog. "Environmental pollution leads to severe health issues and even death," therefore kilns without Zigzag technology will not be allowed to operate in Punjab.
Marriyum Aurangzeb said kilns sans Zigzag technology will be demolished. She added that under the Punjab government's eco-friendly policy, plastic bags have been banned. Additionally, vehicles emitting excessive smoke were also being monitored.
She claimed that, following the Chief Minister’s directive, Lahore and other districts would be cleared of pollution-causing factories. The government was also targeting factories that contribute to pollution, she maintained.
She called for zero tolerance for environmental law violations and urged the media to report such issues to enable departmental action. Operations were ongoing against tanneries in Lahore, Sheikhupura and Kasur. FIRs have been registered and fines have been imposed on those burning paddy straw.
Marriyum appealed to the courts not to grant any stay to those harming the environment. She stressed the need for all state institutions to fulfil their responsibilities and for state machinery to work together for success.
Secretary Environment Raja Jahangir Anwar, DG Imran Hamid Sheikh, Deputy Commissioner Arshad Bhatti and others were also present.