Petrol Rickshaw
In a bold step to tackle the worsening smog crisis, the Punjab government has decided to ban the manufacturing of petrol-run motorcycle rickshaws. This major policy shift was approved during a special meeting of the provincial anti-smog committee on Thursday, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
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A Shift Toward Cleaner Transport
Motorcycle rickshaws are among the most common means of transport in Punjab, but they are also a major source of air pollution. To curb emissions, the government has not only approved the ban on producing petrol rickshaws but has also laid out a phased plan to end the manufacturing of petrol motorcycles altogether.
Under this new policy, government departments will now only purchase electric or hybrid vehicles, including e-motorcycles. The move reflects the province’s broader vision of transitioning toward cleaner, eco-friendly transport.
Ban on Washing Cars at Home and Crackdown on Burning Waste
Another significant decision from the meeting was the complete ban on washing vehicles at home. Authorities say the practice wastes large quantities of water and allows dirty runoff to contaminate drains and soil.
The committee also reaffirmed that anyone found burning plastic or other harmful materials will face strict penalties, as such burning releases toxic smoke that worsens air quality.
Better Waste Management Coming Province-Wide
To improve cleanliness and encourage proper waste disposal, Punjab will soon introduce colour-coded waste bins across all districts. These bins will help citizens separate waste more responsibly and reduce pollution caused by improper waste handling.
Tighter Vehicle Emission Checks
Recognising that smoke-emitting vehicles are a major cause of smog, the government has approved the setup of public-private partnership workshops where vehicles exceeding emission limits will be regularly inspected and tested.
Punjab has already launched its first Air Quality Monitoring Network, with 41 advanced monitoring devices installed in 18 districts. An additional 100 sensors are expected to be operational next year. Authorities are also using an AQI Forecast System to predict smog levels and respond more effectively.
Massive Drop in Crop Burning
One of the standout achievements shared during the meeting was the 88% reduction in crop residue burning around Lahore and nearby districts. This decline has been made possible through drone surveillance and satellite monitoring, which help teams quickly identify and stop such incidents.
Punjab has also established a special Smog War Room at the Safe Cities Authority to closely monitor environmental conditions around the clock.
Tech-Driven Approach to Environmental Safety
The provincial government is increasingly turning to technology. Officials highlighted several new digital tools, including:
- Pakistan’s first Eco Chatbot to help citizens understand pollution and smog prevention.
- A new mobile app and public dashboard that provide real-time air quality updates.
- A province-wide vehicle emission testing system, which has already screened over 300,000 vehicles.
Lahore Remains Among the Most Polluted Cities
Despite these efforts, the situation in Lahore is alarming. On Thursday evening, the city ranked second on the global pollution index, with an overall AQI of 226—a level considered “very unhealthy.”
Some of the worst-hit areas included:
- Civil Secretariat (AQI 788)
- Johar Town (AQI 695)
- Cantonment (AQI 581)
- Barki Road (AQI 403)
- Askari X (AQI 327)
- Allama Iqbal Town (AQI 298)
Other major cities—Sialkot, Gujranwala, Multan, Bahawalpur—also recorded air quality levels in the “very unhealthy” range.
Authorities on High Alert
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a smog and fog alert, warning that several districts—including Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala—are at high risk.
Officials have directed district administrations to enforce anti-smog rules strictly, especially against individuals burning crops or garbage.
Cold Weather Likely to Intensify Smog
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicts cold and dry weather across the province, which typically worsens smog due to still air and limited wind movement. Areas such as Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, and Gujranwala are expected to experience more smog and fog in the coming days.
Conclusion
Punjab’s decision to ban the production of petrol rickshaws and gradually phase out petrol motorcycles marks a huge turning point in its fight against smog. Combined with stricter enforcement, new technology, and better public awareness, these steps show the government’s determination to create a cleaner, healthier environment.
However, with pollution levels in cities like Lahore still dangerously high, the road ahead remains challenging. Continued action and public cooperation will be essential to make the province’s air truly breathable.
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