Punjab Cabinet Cracks Down on Vehicle Fitness and Plastic Pollution

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz led the 18th provincial cabinet meeting, where several crucial decisions were made, particularly regarding environmental improvement.

One of the key points was penalties for vehicles operating without a Vehicle Fitness Certificate. These vehicles will face fines and could be impounded after receiving a one-time notice.

The cabinet also approved a new policy to manage single-use plastic in Punjab. District Plastic Management Committees will be formed to enforce these regulations.

These committees will be led by Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and District Police Officers (DPOs). They will also include traders and other relevant authorities as members.

The committees will have the authority to impose fines on violators and shut down factories that produce low-quality or harmful plastic bags. Furthermore, they will reduce registration and renewal fees for factories that manufacture eco-friendly plastic bags.

To support environmental oversight, the recruitment of 310 environmental inspectors was approved, alongside the purchase of 250 electric bikes and uniforms for the inspectors.

In the education sector, the cabinet approved the formation of the Punjab Examination, Curriculum, Training and Assessment Authority (PECTAA) and gave the go-ahead for the Punjab Chief Minister’s Laptop Scheme. The Chief Minister instructed authorities to distribute the laptops to students promptly.

Another important decision was the approval of the Khelta Punjab Games 2024, an Under-16 Talent Hunt Programme. Over 150,000 young players have registered for the event, and 6,000 internships will be offered in the sports department, with a monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000. Additionally, private universities will offer free education and sports facilities to 50 young athletes.

The cabinet also introduced the Chief Minister Punjab Livestock Card for small farmers, setting an annual target of producing 200,000 animals. This scheme will be extended to larger farmers as well.

The meeting also approved the Punjab Development Act 2024, which will establish three new authorities: the Punjab Development Authority, Water & Sanitation Authority, and Horticulture Authority.

In support of religious minorities, the cabinet announced a festival card for Hindu and Sikh communities. Under this initiative, Rs. 10,000 will be provided to 2,200 families on Guru Nanak’s birthday and during Diwali.

Additionally, the cabinet approved the establishment of new technical universities in Punjab and sanctioned recruitment for positions in grades 1 to 15 at the Wildlife Park in Joharabad.