GUJRANWALA: Punjab has stepped up preparations to prevent the burning of crop residues in Gujranwala as part of efforts to protect air quality and reduce pollution during the crop-burning season.
Teams from the Agriculture and Environment departments reviewed arrangements at Quick Response Centres established at Nadala Sandwan and Kotli No on the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway.
Dr. Muhammad Zahid, Director Agriculture IPM and In-charge of the Provincial Smog Control Cell, visited the centres along with the Deputy Director Agriculture and Deputy Director Environment Gujranwala.
The team reviewed the availability of field staff, machinery, communication systems and other arrangements to respond to incidents of crop residue burning.
Officials said all relevant teams and resources have been kept on alert to prevent the burning of agricultural waste and respond to violations.
Farmers have also been urged not to burn crop residues and to cooperate with the administration in protecting the environment and maintaining clean air.
The burning of crop residues releases smoke and harmful pollutants into the atmosphere and can worsen air quality, particularly during periods when pollution levels are already high. Preventing open burning and promoting better management of agricultural residues can help protect public health, reduce air pollution and support more sustainable farming practices.
