Lahore to suspend driving licences of smoke-emitting vehicle operators

Commercial vehicles also face penalties

The CTO said commercial vehicles found violating anti-smog regulations will also face strict action. According to officials, the route permits of commercial vehicles found emitting excessive smoke will be suspended.

Authorities said transport operators must ensure their vehicles comply with environmental standards before operating on city roads. The department warned that repeat offenders could face additional legal action under the relevant laws.

Tarpaulin rule remains in force

The Traffic Police also confirmed that the ban on tractor-trailers and dump trucks carrying sand or soil without protective tarpaulin covers remains in effect. Officials said uncovered loads contribute significantly to dust pollution and worsen Lahore’s air quality.

Drivers have also been instructed to follow mandatory safety measures, including using tarpaulin covers and water sprinkling where required, to minimise the spread of dust. Authorities warned that vehicles violating these rules will face legal action.

Thousands of cases registered during the crackdown

According to a Traffic Police spokesperson, authorities have registered 1,013 cases against violators during the ongoing anti-smog campaign. Officials said enforcement teams have also taken action against 3,649 smoke-emitting vehicles during the current month.

In addition, action has been taken against 2,183 vehicles found causing environmental pollution. The department said these operations will continue as part of Lahore’s efforts to reduce smog.

Unfit vehicles are also under scrutiny

The Traffic Police said 6,820 unfit and poorly maintained vehicles have also faced action for violating traffic and environmental regulations. Officials stressed that vehicle owners are responsible for ensuring their vehicles remain roadworthy and environmentally compliant.

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Authorities believe regular maintenance can significantly reduce harmful emissions and improve road safety. Motorists have been urged to repair faulty engines and exhaust systems to avoid penalties.

Special enforcement teams deployed

To strengthen the anti-smog campaign, the City Traffic Police have deployed special teams at 12 entry and exit points across Lahore. An additional 45 dedicated enforcement teams are conducting inspections throughout the city.

Officials said these teams are checking vehicle emissions, monitoring compliance with environmental regulations and taking action against violators. Authorities added that inspections will continue throughout the smog season.

AI system to identify violating vehicles

The CTO said the Lahore Traffic Police are using an artificial intelligence-based system to detect smoke-emitting vehicles. The technology enables authorities to identify violating vehicles and issue electronic traffic tickets more efficiently.

Officials said the AI system is expected to improve enforcement while reducing delays in identifying offenders. The use of modern technology is part of broader efforts to strengthen environmental monitoring across the city.

Government departments also receive notices

The CTO said notices have been issued to government and semi-government organisations, directing them to repair smoke-emitting vehicles in their fleets. Authorities warned that organisations failing to comply with the instructions could face strict legal action.

Officials said government departments are expected to set an example by ensuring their vehicles meet environmental standards. The campaign applies equally to public and private sector vehicles.

Smog remains a major concern

Lahore experiences severe smog during parts of the year, particularly in the winter months, when air quality often reaches unhealthy levels. Environmental experts say vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust and crop residue burning all contribute to worsening air pollution.

Authorities hope stricter enforcement, improved vehicle maintenance and public cooperation will help reduce pollution levels. Officials have urged motorists to play their part by keeping their vehicles properly maintained and following environmental regulations.