In a landmark move on World Environment Day, the Punjab government has launched Pakistan’s first-ever Environmental Protection Force (EPF), signaling a major step forward in the fight against environmental degradation. The initiative was announced by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif as part of the province’s broader Climate Resilient Punjab Vision and Action Plan.
Under this vision, the provincial government has introduced its first comprehensive climate policy and established a Rs15 billion environmental endowment fund to support green businesses and startups. A series of bold initiatives have been rolled out, from a complete ban on single-use plastics to the creation of a Plastic Management Cell and an online registration system for plastic manufacturers and sellers.
To tackle air and water pollution, Punjab has launched Emission Testing Certification for vehicles in line with international standards, installed 50 air quality monitoring stations, and set up 15 water quality monitoring sites across rivers and drains. Additionally, four state-of-the-art fuel testing labs have been established to monitor petrol quality.
The province has also embraced technology by introducing a GIS-based environmental compliance monitoring squad powered by artificial intelligence. Public participation is being encouraged through a dedicated helpline (1317) for environmental complaints and suggestions, as well as the launch of a mobile app titled ‘Green Punjab’ to make eco-services more accessible.
Efforts to combat industrial pollution are underway with the installation of emission control systems in over 2,000 factories and the conversion of all brick kilns to cleaner zigzag technology. Meanwhile, construction sites are now using sprinkler systems to curb dust pollution.
Environmental education is also a focus, with training programs launched for government departments and divisional environmental offices already established in five regions, with more on the way. In the transport sector, the electric bus service that began in Lahore is being expanded across Punjab, with 1,100 new buses and charging stations planned.
This sweeping environmental reform positions Punjab as a trailblazer in green governance, with the aim of setting a national benchmark in climate action and sustainable development.