LAHORE – A recent report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the Punjab Environment Department reveals that out of the 8,308 industrial units across 36 districts in Punjab, 3,303 are still operating without an Environmental Control System (ECS). The report, made public under the Access to Information Act, highlights the need for stricter adherence to environmental regulations.
According to the data provided by EPA, only 5,005 industrial units have installed ECS, while 3,303 remain non-compliant. The report, which follows an application filed by Advocate Abdullah Malik under the Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act 2013, reveals significant regional variations. In Gujranwala, 512 out of 1,749 industrial units lack ECS, and in Faisalabad, 280 out of 1,386 units still operate without it. The situation is even more alarming in Multan, where only 127 out of 496 units have installed ECS.
Interestingly, two districts in Punjab, Toba Tek Singh and Vehari, report 100% compliance, with all industrial units in these areas having installed the environment-friendly systems.
The EPA report also sheds light on the brick kiln sector, revealing that out of 8,664 brick kilns in Punjab, 8,013 have switched to the environmentally friendly zigzag technology, while 651 continue to operate under outdated methods. Several districts, including Bahawalnagar, Muzaffargarh, and Rawalpindi, show low conversion rates to zigzag technology.
As part of its enforcement efforts, the EPA conducted 14,859 inspections, issued notices to 5,230 industries, sealed 767 units, demolished 158, and imposed fines totaling Rs86,915,000. Lahore, Gujranwala, and Jhang reported the highest number of violations, with numerous cases registered across various districts.
This report underscores the critical need for improved environmental compliance to mitigate pollution and safeguard public health.
Story by Asif Mahmood Butt
