According to local media reports, the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Pakistan has uncovered the secret nighttime operations of banned pyrolysis plants in Lahore, identified as a major contributor to the city’s worsening smog problem. The findings were published in the agency’s latest drone surveillance report.

The EPA’s drone squad inspected eight plants in areas including Karol Ghati, Turki Road, Sharifpura, and Daroghawala. While three facilities were found operating during inspection, others appeared inactive. However, large tire stockpiles, electrical wiring, and fresh carbon deposits suggested that many resumed activity after dark.

Deputy Director EPA Lahore, Ali Ijaz, confirmed that following these findings, the agency, together with the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), launched demolition operations against the illegal facilities. He noted that under current environmental laws, the use or transport of substandard fuels such as tires is strictly prohibited due to their harmful emissions.

Authorities have emphasized that strict monitoring will continue, and violators will face severe penalties. The EPA also urged industries to adopt legal and cleaner fuel alternatives, and called on citizens to report suspected illegal operations. Plans are underway to expand drone surveillance to other smog-affected areas in Pakistan ahead of the high-pollution season.

Source: Daily Times.