Punjab’s government has introduced an AI-based system to monitor and forecast smog across the province. This technology predicts air pollution levels and smog intensity up to four months in advance. It also tracks polluted air drifting from India. This is Punjab’s first comprehensive technological step toward managing air quality effectively.
The system helps the government plan preventive actions, alert healthcare sectors, and control pollution sources promptly. Punjab’s Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb announced strict targets for industries, transport, and construction to reduce emissions. Compliance is enforced through advanced surveillance and drone monitoring.
Read more: Lahore deploys anti-smog guns today to fight pollution
The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency has completed over 300,000 vehicle fitness tests this year. Around 1,100 electric buses are operating, with 1,000 more to be introduced soon. Additionally, 41 Air Quality Monitoring Stations are active, with plans to increase this number to 100 by next year.
A Smog War Room, connected to the Punjab IT Board’s dashboard, coordinates swift responses to pollution violations. Offenders face fines, sealing, or demolition. Real-time emissions monitoring of industries and regular fuel inspections at petrol stations are in place. Crop residue burning is strictly banned, and mobile hospitals stand ready in high-smog zones.
Read more:Lahore launches anti-smog guns to fight pollution
Punjab has also created an Environment Protection Force to monitor pollution 24/7 using drones and squads. An anti-plastic campaign encourages public participation. Together, these efforts mark a major step toward cleaner air and healthier living conditions in the province.