Illegal industrial units in residential areas face Punjab crackdown
The Punjab government has launched a large-scale crackdown on illegal industrial units operating in residential areas as part of its ongoing anti-smog campaign. The move aims to reduce pollution and improve environmental conditions across the province.
The decision was taken during an important anti-smog meeting chaired by Senior Minister Punjab Maryam Aurangzeb under the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Officials ordered immediate action against illegal industrial units in Lahore and other parts of Punjab. Enforcement operations will also target unauthorised businesses contributing to air pollution in residential neighbourhoods.
Authorities said illegal industries operating in populated areas are a major source of environmental pollution. The government also decided to take strict action against illegal fat-melting units and gradually relocate approved urban industries to designated industrial zones. A comprehensive relocation plan has already been prepared. Officials also ordered the immediate cancellation of all previously issued NOCs for industrial units operating in residential areas. Disciplinary action will also be taken against officials responsible for granting such approvals.
The meeting was informed that industries involved in burning wire and plastic, along with marble-cutting units, wood workshops, and other small industrial facilities, are among the major contributors to air pollution. Officials warned that gases released from burning plastic can cause respiratory diseases, lung damage, and even cancer.
According to the latest data, 5,206 illegal industrial units have been identified and mapped in Lahore, including 4,514 located within residential areas. The identified units have been divided into five environmental risk categories. Among them, 306 have been classified as extremely high-pollution units, 676 as high-pollution units, 539 as medium-pollution units, 2,925 as low-pollution units, and 760 as very low-pollution units.
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Maryam Aurangzeb said the industrial relocation strategy will be implemented in short, medium, and long-term phases. Large industries will be provided with land in new industrial zones outside residential areas, along with essential facilities, including electricity, water, and road infrastructure.
The government also plans to offer incentives such as subsidized land, support for machinery imports, and waste treatment facilities to encourage industries to relocate. A permanent implementation committee has been formed with representatives from the environment, local government, police, LDA, industries, and revenue departments to monitor timelines, oversee reforms, and address complaints.
Officials said the recommendations were prepared after consultations with more than 50 stakeholders through 14 meetings. International case studies and local experience were also considered to ensure phased implementation.
