BHAKKAR: Punjab’s Environmental Protection Department has intensified enforcement against brick kilns violating environmental regulations as part of the provincial government’s efforts to curb air pollution and smog.
Additional Director General Operations EPA Punjab Dr Zafar Iqbal said strict compliance with environmental standard operating procedures (SOPs) was essential to control pollution and protect public health.
He was addressing a seminar on smog prevention organised by the Notak Brick Kiln Association in collaboration with the Environment Department. Assistant Director Environment Bhakkar Hameed Akhtar, President Brick Kiln Association Bhakkar Farman Gujjar and a large number of brick kiln owners attended the event.
Dr Zafar said the Punjab government had introduced strict measures for brick kilns to reduce emissions, including requirements related to zigzag technology, while action was being taken against operators who failed to comply with environmental regulations.
He said the department was also providing guidance to brick kiln owners to help them understand and implement the required environmental standards.
“Every citizen has a role to play in reducing environmental pollution,” Dr Zafar said, urging brick kiln owners to recognise the seriousness of smog and ensure full compliance with the prescribed SOPs.
87 Cases Registered Against Kiln Owners
Assistant Director Environment Bhakkar Hameed Akhtar said enforcement authorities had taken significant action against brick kilns found violating environmental regulations.
According to him, 87 cases have been registered against brick kiln owners, while 35 brick kilns have been demolished and 16 sealed for violations. Authorities have also imposed fines exceeding Rs1 million in total.
He said no concession would be given to individuals or businesses whose activities contributed to environmental pollution.
President Brick Kiln Association Bhakkar Farman Gujjar welcomed the organisation of the awareness seminar and urged kiln owners to fulfil their environmental responsibilities.
He said controlling pollution was in the collective interest of both brick kiln operators and the wider community, stressing that compliance with environmental regulations could help protect public health and reduce the intensity of smog.
The seminar highlighted the Punjab government’s broader campaign to strengthen environmental enforcement and promote cleaner industrial practices ahead of the upcoming smog season.