EPA Moves to Curb Road Dust and Waste Burning Ahead of Smog
Punjab Environment Protection Agency’s Pre-Smog Crackdown
The Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has intensified its efforts to combat smog by directing government bodies and local authorities to address practices causing fugitive dust and enforce stricter pollution control measures. This comes as Punjab prepares for the critical pre-smog period.
Key Measures:
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Shift from Dry Sweeping: EPA Director General Abdullah Nayyar Sheikh has urged a transition from dry sweeping to mechanical or wet sweeping methods, aiming to minimize re-suspended road dust.
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Strict Enforcement of SOPs: The EPA has emphasized the importance of implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for dust control at construction sites and development projects.
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Ban on Open Burning: They have prohibited open burning of solid waste, including roadside debris and garbage, and requested the identification and monitoring of hotspots during the smog season.
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Implementing Dust Control SOPs: The EPA has communicated with several departments, demanding strict adherence to established SOPs for dust control at under-construction roads and buildings, addressing the public health concerns linked to construction activities.
The EPA’s actions follow the development of detailed SOPs in 2025 for managing dust emissions from construction projects, but field inspections revealed a need for better implementation. As Punjab enters the smog season, these measures aim to improve air quality and public health.
