LAHORE: The two-phase operation to eliminate encroachments and clean up Punjab is currently carried underway in the province. The encroachments on roads, markets, and streets are being cleared in different districts of Punjab.
The sheds falling under the category of encroachments are being demolished. The provincial government is also carrying out a campaign to install standardised shop signs. This campaign will begin from Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan and will then expand onto other cities in the province.
In Lahore, in addition to ensuring cleanliness in public areas, a complete infrastructure for garbage collection has also been established in the markets. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz commended the officers and staff of the district administration in achieving this target.
To monitor the air quality of the provincial capital, so far, 30 modern air quality monitoring stations have been installed across the province. The Punjab government said that by the end of March, 30 more monitors will be installed. At the beginning of 2025, there were only three of these monitors in Punjab.
The Punjab government is aiming for installing 100 AQI monitors to protect air quality across the entire province. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said that the implementation of latest action plan to tackle environmental challenges will continue. “These air quality monitoring stations will play an important role in tackling climate change and improving the environment,” she added.
The minister said that until the air becomes clean and healthy, the provincial government will not rest. “After all, it is a matter of survival of our generations,” Aurangzeb added.
WORLD WETLANDS DAY
Meanwhile, Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, speaking on World Wetlands Day, said, “Wetlands are a defense against climate change, their protection is essential for ecological survival.”
She said that wetlands are called the lungs of our earth and are the habitat of aquatic and wildlife. Wetlands maintain the groundwater level and absorb carbon, and also control floods.
The chief minister said, “Punjab government has formulated a comprehensive “Climate Policy” for the first time in the country’s history. Under the climate policy, the protection and restoration of wetlands and other natural systems is being given top priority. Construction of watchtowers and check posts is underway to monitor wetlands and other natural resources.”
She added that the government is ensuring the provision of facilities for recreational and research purposes on wetlands and other natural habitats, and punishments are being rewarded for violating the fishing system.
“No activity will be allowed that can damage the natural balance of wetlands or other areas. The Punjab government is working with the public, experts and international organisations to protect the natural environment,” CM Nawaz added.