The Punjab government has launched a province-wide crackdown on illegal industrial units operating in residential areas, following directives from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
As part of the enforcement drive, the Environmental Protection Department’s team in Chiniot carried out an operation against a leather processing facility accused of causing environmental pollution in a populated neighbourhood.
During the action, authorities demolished an illegal tannery and a warehouse used for storing animal hides. Officials said the facility was involved in leather processing activities that produced strong odours and contributed to unhealthy living conditions for nearby residents.
The operation came after repeated complaints from local residents, who reported ongoing health and hygiene concerns due to pollution. Many residents welcomed the government’s intervention, saying the situation had affected children, women, and elderly people in the area.
Officials said the campaign is part of a wider effort to enforce environmental regulations across the province and eliminate industrial activity in residential zones.
Senior provincial officials reiterated that industrial operations are not permitted in residential areas and warned of strict action against violators, including illegal tanneries, waste-burning units, and other polluting activities.
Authorities added that the crackdown on environmental violations will continue across Punjab as part of ongoing efforts to improve air quality and public health standards.
