The Punjab government has enforced a complete ban on the burning of crop residues across the province, including Lahore, as part of its efforts to combat worsening air pollution and smog. The decision comes ahead of the winter season, when stubble burning and industrial emissions combine to cause severe air quality deterioration in several districts.
According to officials, monitoring squads have been activated in all major agricultural zones to ensure compliance with the ban. These teams will patrol rural areas, identify violations, and take immediate legal action against those found burning leftover crop material in fields.
A senior representative of the Punjab Environment Protection Department stated that strict measures are necessary to prevent environmental damage. “Every year, we witness a surge in smog levels due to stubble burning. This time, we are determined to enforce the ban effectively,” the official added.
Farmers have been advised to adopt eco-friendly alternatives such as mechanical shredding and soil incorporation instead of open-field burning. The government has also announced technical and financial assistance to promote sustainable farming practices that protect soil fertility and air quality.
The ban aligns with Punjab’s broader environmental policy, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb seasonal smog incidents that affect health, transport, and visibility. Health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the risk of respiratory diseases, particularly among children and the elderly.
In related environmental developments, moderate earthquake tremors were recently felt in Swat and northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, causing temporary panic among residents .
Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with environmental teams and report any instances of crop burning. The government emphasized that collective responsibility is crucial to keeping Punjab’s air clean and ensuring a healthier environment for future generation
