RAWALPINDI: The Punjab Government has given directives to the District Environment Protection Department to conduct an operation against the vehicles that emit smoke and produce earsplitting sounds starting from today. 

The emission of toxic fumes and deafening sounds produced by vehicles is rapidly causing pollution, both environmental and noise. Under the guidance of Abdul Salam, Inspector of District Environment Protection Department, and Muhammad Arshad, Research Officer, two teams have been constituted which also comprise of officials from the City Traffic Police and Regional Transport Authority (RTA).

The teams will setup their check posts at the entrance/exit points of the city to inspect the private and public transport vehicles including large means of transportation. Under the directives of Punjab Minister for Environment, Zakia Shahnawaz, the Punjab Secretary for Environment, Dr. Iqbal, will personally monitor the teams.   

The teams are bound for sending a report of the daily progress to the Punjab Environment Protection Department on a regular basis. This will allow the Punjab government to remain updated with achievements of the operation and performance of the teams. Strict action will be taken against any officer for negligence in duties.