Punjab has taken a significant step towards environmental protection with the launch of its first satellite-linked monitoring system. Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced the system’s implementation, highlighting its use of advanced technology and drones to identify and address environmental violations.
The system has already proven effective, leading to raids on factories found to be emitting harmful smoke in violation of environmental regulations. Utilizing drone technology, the Department of Environmental Protection has successfully identified and shut down two such factories.
In a coordinated effort with the district administration, the department conducted raids on these factories, located on Sheikhupura Road in Gujranwala. The authorities took decisive action, dismantling the factories’ kilns and sealing the premises to prevent further environmental damage.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced that, under the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the province will intensify its anti-smog campaign before the season begins. Aurangzeb stressed the urgency of addressing the root causes of smog, which claims an estimated 250,000 lives in the country each year.
She called upon all citizens of Punjab to participate in the fight against smog, emphasizing the collective responsibility to protect lives.
In a separate statement, Aurangzeb addressed the May 9 incident, stating that those involved in planning and attacking the state will face consequences. She emphasized that pleas for leniency will not be entertained and that punishment is inevitable. Aurangzeb pointed out the irony of a May 9 convict seeking relief under the new NAB law, which some critics argue was designed to protect corrupt individuals.