Punjab Sets October 15 Deadline to Crack Down on Smoke-Emitting Private Vehicles

LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to launch a strict crackdown against smoke-emitting private vehicles across the province, giving motorists until October 15, 2026, to ensure their vehicles meet environmental standards.

Punjab Transport Authority Secretary Hassan Ahsan announced that indiscriminate legal action would begin against vehicles emitting excessive smoke from October 15 as part of measures to control smog.

Speaking at a press conference on the province’s smog situation and preparations for the upcoming season, Ahsan said the Transport Department, environmental protection authorities and other relevant institutions had joined hands to tackle air pollution.

He said coordinated measures taken by the departments had contributed to a noticeable improvement in the smog situation last year.

The secretary urged vehicle owners to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained and do not contribute to air pollution before enforcement operations begin.

Authorities are expected to intensify inspections and enforcement across Punjab as part of preparations to prevent a deterioration in air quality during the smog season.