In a first, Punjab EPA assigns unique IDs to industries, brick kilns

WEB DESK: The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has assigned unique identification numbers to all industries and brick kilns across the province. According to officials, the move which is the first for Pakistan includes e-mapping of all industrial units and brick kilns, has been completed, thus building a systematic tracking mechanism for environmental inspections.

Director General Punjab EPA Imran Hamid Sheikh stated that all inspections conducted by the EPA force will now be recorded under the unique identification number system, enhancing transparency and efficiency in monitoring.

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To further improve oversight, the Eco-Watch app will now require inspectors to register the unique ID of each unit or kiln during field inspections. The uploaded data will automatically include photos, videos, and location records, ensuring real-time documentation.

The Punjab EPA has warned that violations will be dealt with under the Punjab Environmental Protection Act (PEPA), with strict legal action against non-compliant units.

All relevant departments, officials, and field inspectors have been issued directives to ensure the system’s implementation. The inspection history and violation records of each unit will be instantly accessible, and all enforcement actions will be systematically documented.