LAHORE: The Punjab government has established an “Environmental Force” to address smog and pollution across the province. The force, approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, will ensure the enforcement of environmental laws and implement strategies to reduce pollution.
The force consists of 10 specialized squads, each with a specific role:
- Green Squad: Focuses on tree planting and protecting green areas.
- Blue Squad: Works to prevent water waste and improve water management.
- Black Squad: Checks vehicle emissions, noise, and fuel quality.
- Red Squad: Handles emergencies involving hazardous chemicals.
- Urban Vigilance Squad: Monitors illegal encroachments, waste dumping, and other harmful activities.
- Hawk Eye Squad: Uses 360-degree cameras and advanced technology for air quality monitoring.
The force has been given 11 thermal drones to identify polluted areas, along with 25 vehicles, 5 vans, 8 double-cabin vehicles, and 250 electric bikes. Additionally, 5 mobile air quality monitoring stations will track pollution levels in different areas.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz attended the first passing-out parade of the force and launched the “Environmental Approval Management System” and “Emission Testing System.” She also placed the first ETS sticker on a vehicle to confirm its emissions meet standards.
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Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb explained that the Green Squad will lead anti-plastic and dengue control efforts, while the Blue Squad will protect water resources. The Black Squad will take action against toxic emissions, and the Red Squad will monitor industrial and hospital waste.
The force is also equipped with 360-degree cameras and thermal drones for round-the-clock monitoring. The Hawk Eye Squad will use night-vision drones to detect environmental threats.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the force is a major step toward making Punjab cleaner and safer. She added that with modern technology, it will help reduce pollution and provide a healthier environment for the public.
This initiative marks Punjab’s first technology-backed effort to combat pollution effectively.
