Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz launched the Environment Protection Force, which will use hybrid vehicles, drones, and systems to fight pollution and protect nature.
Greener Punjab Begins:
A significant step toward a better and cleaner future has been taken by Punjab. Lahore’s first Environment Protection Force was formally established by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on April 16, 2025. The purpose of this new group is to directly combat the region’s growing pollution issues. For the people of Punjab and the environment, this effort is revolutionary in terms of managing garbage and plastic, as well as reducing pollution in the air and water.
Historic Inauguration:
The launch event was held in Lahore with a passing-out parade of the new environmental officers. The ceremony was attended by many senior government officials, including Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb. CM Maryam Nawaz led the event, personally inspected a vehicle, and placed the first official emission testing sticker, symbolising the start of this mission.
Why Does This Force Matter?
Punjab has had severe environmental issues for many years. In places like Lahore, the air quality frequently approaches hazardous levels. Rivers and sewers are clogged with plastic garbage. Water bodies are exposed to industrial waste. Every winter, pollution is produced by burning agricultural trash. There hasn’t been a specific environmental force to deal with these issues until today.
Punjab now has a group of experts with the means and power to manage pollution for the first time. This demonstrates how seriously the government takes protecting the environment.
Systems for a Cleaner Future:
At the event, CM Maryam Nawaz also introduced two important digital systems:
Environmental Approval Management System:
This system will make the process of environmental approvals easier, faster, and more transparent for industries and businesses.
Emission Testing System:
This will check vehicles for pollution levels. The aim is to stop polluting vehicles from running on roads. Emission stickers will be used to identify vehicles that pass the test. These systems will help reduce industrial and vehicle pollution, which are two of the biggest causes of dirty air in Punjab.
Environmental Protection:
The Environment Protection Force is not just symbolic, it has a clear, action-based plan. Here’s what this new force will do:
- Control Plastic Pollution:
Teams will monitor plastic usage and ensure plastic waste is properly collected and managed.
- Tackle Dust and Smog:
Dust from construction sites and the burning of waste will be checked and controlled.
- Fight Dengue:
Environmental officers will work with health teams to prevent the spread of dengue by keeping areas clean and free of stagnant water.
- Protect Water Resources:
The force will stop industries and hospitals from dumping waste into rivers and canals.
- Monitor Air Quality:
Air pollution will be tracked using mobile air quality monitoring stations.
- Inspect Factories and Hospitals:
Special squads will visit factories and medical facilities to make sure they follow pollution control laws.
Programs for Youth and School Engagement:
The Environmental Protection Force’s strategy to actively engage colleges and universities in environmental initiatives is one of its most exciting future elements. To educate pupils about pollution, climate change, and conservation, the government is getting ready to start eco-clubs in schools. These young environmentalists will take part in awareness marches, sanitation campaigns, and tree-planting activities. In addition to tackling today’s issues, Punjab is fostering a generation of environmentally conscious individuals by teaching the next generation and transforming them into environmental ambassadors.
Modern Tools for a Modern Mission:
To support the Environment Protection Force, CM Maryam Nawaz announced a set of new high-tech tools:
- 25 Hybrid Vehicles:
These eco-friendly vehicles will help officers move across cities and rural areas.
- 200 Electric Bikes:
These bikes will reduce fuel use and make it easier for the force to access narrow streets and busy areas.
- Thermal Drones:
These drones will help monitor temperature differences in industrial zones and detect pollution hotspots.
- Mobile Air Quality Units:
These will travel across the province, collecting real-time air quality data to warn the public.
Pollution-Free Punjab:
Maryam Nawaz, while speaking at the ceremony, said:
“The launch of this force is not just a policy, it is a commitment to future generations. A clean Punjab means a healthy Punjab.”
She added that this initiative shows that her government is ready to invest in long-term solutions for environmental health, not just short-term fixes.
Role of Citizens:
While the government is doing its part, CM Maryam Nawaz reminded the public that citizen cooperation is key. People must stop burning garbage, reduce plastic usage, and avoid throwing waste in open areas. She said,
“This is a collective mission. The Environment Protection Force will only succeed if every citizen plays their role.”
Support from Environmental Experts:
Environmentalists across Pakistan have praised the move. Experts believe that this force will help:
- Enforce laws more effectively.
- Create awareness among the public.
- Reduce health issues caused by pollution
- Push industries to adopt greener practices
Future Plans:
This is just the beginning. The Punjab government is already working on:
- Expanding this force to all major districts in Punjab.
- Launching a mobile app for citizens to report pollution violations.
- Starting public awareness campaigns about environmental safety.
CM Maryam Nawaz has also directed departments to plant more trees, clean canals, and ban plastic bags in phases.
Conclusion:
Punjab is happy to have launched the Environment Protection Force. It demonstrates that the province is at last putting environmental commitments into practice. Punjab is prepared to combat pollution more effectively than ever before thanks to innovative procedures, skilled officials, and cutting-edge equipment.
Punjab has the potential to quickly establish itself as a model for environmental conservation, not only in Pakistan but also throughout South Asia, if this program is carried out with the same fervour and backing. Together, let’s support this force and do our part to make Punjab healthier, cleaner, and greener for our kids and future generations.
