Chiniot, A major crackdown on environmental pollution has led to the sealing of 38 brick kilns and two factories in Chiniot District, following their failure to adhere to anti-smog regulations. This action comes in the wake of a comprehensive district-wide inspection targeting environmental compliance.

According to Zameen.com, published on November 14, the Environment Protection Department (EPD) Assistant Director Nawaz Sial oversaw the inspection of all 226 brick kilns in the district. The inspection revealed that 38 kilns had not converted to the mandated zig-zag technology, a key requirement in reducing smog. As a result, these kilns were immediately sealed, and the owners were fined a total of PKR 5,000,000.

In addition to the actions taken against brick kilns, FIRs were filed against 22 kiln owners for non-compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs). Further, the district’s inspection teams examined 104 industrial units, leading to the sealing of three units and the issuance of notices to 22 others. These measures resulted in additional fines totaling PKR 800,000.

The crackdown extended beyond industrial units to include transportation and agricultural sectors. The District Road Transport Authority secretary reported fines of PKR 2.124 million imposed on 2,910 vehicles for various violations. In the agricultural sector, seven FIRs were filed against farmers for burning crop waste, culminating in fines of PKR 1,130,000.

In response to the increasing smog problem, the Deputy Commissioner has directed Aftab Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of the District Education Authority, to launch awareness campaigns in schools. These campaigns, encompassing both public and private educational institutions, aim to educate students about the harmful effects of smog and the importance of environmental protection.