Punjab has made a significant move towards environmental protection with the introduction of its first satellite-linked monitoring system. Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced the system’s launch, highlighting the use of advanced technology and drones to detect and address environmental violations.
The system has already demonstrated its effectiveness, leading to raids on factories found emitting harmful smoke in breach of environmental regulations. Through drone technology, the Department of Environmental Protection identified and shut down two factories.
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In collaboration with the district administration, the department conducted raids on these factories, located on Sheikhupura Road in Gujranwala. Authorities took swift action by dismantling the kilns and sealing the premises to prevent further environmental damage. Minister Aurangzeb also announced that, under the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Punjab will intensify its anti-smog campaign ahead of the season. She emphasized the importance of addressing the causes of smog, which is responsible for an estimated 250,000 deaths annually in the country.
Aurangzeb urged all citizens of Punjab to join the fight against smog, stressing the collective responsibility to safeguard lives. In a separate statement, she addressed the May 9 incident, stating that those involved in orchestrating and attacking the state will face justice. Aurangzeb made it clear that no appeals for leniency would be considered, and punishment would be inevitable. She also noted the irony of a May 9 convict seeking relief under the new NAB law, which has been criticized by some as protecting corrupt individuals.
