Assessing the Effectiveness of Punjab Traffic and Motorway Police's Anti-Smoke Campaign on Reducing Smog Levels in Punjab (Pakistan)

Abstract

Smog represents a critical environmental hazard contributing to severe health problems. Punjab faces significant environmental challenges, including resource scarcity, pollution, and climate change. This study assessed the effectiveness of anti-smog enforcement measures targeting motorists in Punjab. Time series data were collected from reputable sources, including the World Bank, Punjab Environmental Protection Agency, and Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-test methodology. Results indicated that air quality in most major cities of Punjab fall within the range of 101-150, classified as "unhealthy for sensitive groups." Further analysis revealed significant changes in enforcement actions between 2020 and 2024. The Punjab Traffic Police has truly made remarkable progress in enforcing traffic regulations across 36 districts of Punjab, issuing an impressive 179,170 tickets for smoke-emitting vehicle violations in just a few months of 2024. This surpasses the 160,973 fines issued in the entire year of 2023, representing an 11% increase in enforcement against pollution-causing vehicles. Fine collection from violators showed a corresponding significant increase. The t-test results demonstrated a significant decrease in vehicular emissions between 2020 and 2024. To establish Punjab as a model for smog-free roadways, these enforcement efforts must be sustained systematically.