Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday inaugurated the province’s first dedicated Environment Protection Force, marking a major step in Pakistan’s environmental governance.
The launch ceremony in Lahore featured the passing out parade of the newly formed force, attended by senior officials, ministers and dignitaries.
The Chief Minister also introduced two key environmental systems — the Environmental Approval Management System and the Emission Testing System — aimed at improving pollution control and regulating vehicle emissions.
CM Maryam Nawaz personally inspected a vehicle and applied the first official emission testing sticker to symbolically launch the system.
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb briefed attendees on the operational framework of the new force, which has been structured to tackle a wide range of environmental issues across Punjab.
The force is divided into specialised units focused on combating plastic waste in cities, controlling dust and dengue, protecting water resources, monitoring emissions, and overseeing industrial and hospital waste management.
In a symbolic gesture, the chief minister hoisted the flag of the Environment Protection Authority and announced the provision of 25 hybrid vehicles and 200 electric bikes to the new force.
The fleet is expected to improve operational efficiency while promoting clean transport initiatives.
Additionally, 360-degree surveillance vehicles, thermal drones and mobile air quality stations have been introduced for real-time environmental monitoring.
In her address, Maryam Nawaz called the establishment of the force a milestone in the province’s fight against environmental hazards and a reflection of the government’s long-term commitment to creating a safer, greener Punjab.
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