The Punjab cabinet has approved amendments to the Provincial Motor Vehicle Ordinance of 1965, significantly increasing fines for vehicles that emit smoke. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired the 18th cabinet meeting, where this crucial decision was made to enhance environmental standards.
Under the new regulations, vehicles operating without a valid Vehicle Fitness Certificate will face increased penalties and will be impounded after a single notice. This move aims to crack down on pollution and ensure compliance with emission standards across the province.
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In addition to the fine increases, the cabinet also introduced measures to combat single-use plastics in Punjab. District Plastic Management Committees will be established to enforce these regulations, with deputy commissioners and district police officers serving as chairpersons.
These committees will have the authority to impose fines for non-compliance and can seal factories producing substandard plastic bags.
The new fines and enforcement measures are expected to significantly reduce the number of smoke-emitting vehicles on the roads and contribute to improved air quality in the region.
