Punjab launches province-wide operation against toxic industrial waste

LAHORE: The Punjab government has initiated a province-wide operation to eliminate toxic industrial waste following directives from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The operation includes an immediate ban on the dumping of hazardous substances into canals and drains, with inspections and enforcement led by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA).

A high-level meeting chaired by Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb was held on the chief minister’s instructions. The meeting decided on immediate actions against industries and housing societies found violating waste disposal laws. Notices have been issued to 28 housing societies and industrial units, with a deadline of August 10 for the cleanup of the Hudiara drain.

CM Maryam Nawaz had previously taken notice of toxic waste dumping in Hudiara and ordered urgent measures. According to briefings during the meeting, untreated industrial waste is a major factor contributing to the spread of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and lung cancer.

Surveys have also been launched on an emergency basis, and inspections will be carried out across Punjab. Completed studies on industrial drainage systems in Faisalabad, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, and Kasur were also presented during the meeting. The administration has finalised legislation introducing fines for polluters, which will now be enforced.

District administrations, along with departments such as Irrigation, WASA, and Industry, will collaborate under EPA’s leadership for the cleanup drive. The government also plans to provide interest-free loans to industries for establishing waste treatment plants. The Secretary of Industry has been directed to install a wastewater treatment plant in Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate without delay.

The chief minister has also directed that a complete health survey must be carried out and submitted by August 31, 2025. Marriyum Aurangzeb said that implementation of the health report must be ensured and that decisive actions across the province should begin on August 10.

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