Punjab Bans Petrol Rickshaws, Home Washing Amid Smog

Punjab’s anti-smog committee has banned petrol-run motorcycle rickshaws and home car washing to curb pollution, with strict penalties for violators. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized eco-friendly reforms as Lahore ranks among the world’s most polluted cities.

Read more: Punjab Launches Major Air Pollution Control Plan

Punjab’s anti-smog committee, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, on Thursday approved a ban on the production of petrol-run motorcycle rickshaws and home car washing, alongside other measures to reduce environmental damage. The committee also endorsed a phased plan to end petrol motorcycle manufacturing, with government departments directed to purchase only electric or hybrid vehicles.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb briefed the meeting on ongoing efforts, noting that Punjab’s first Air Quality Monitoring Network with 41 monitors is operational, with 100 more sensors planned. Officials reported an 88% drop in crop residue burning due to drone surveillance and satellite monitoring.

The committee also approved workshops for emission testing, colour-coded waste bins, and penalties for burning plastic or toxic materials. “Practices harming public health and the environment will be checked and punished,” officials resolved.

Despite these steps, Lahore ranked second on the global pollution index Thursday evening, recording an AQI of 226, categorized as “very unhealthy.” Civil Secretariat areas saw AQI levels spike to 788, while other cities including Sialkot, Gujranwala, and Multan also reported hazardous air quality.