Traffic police and EPA to set up joint checkpoints against smoky vehicles in Punjab

LAHORE (Atemad Desk): Punjab Traffic Police have decided to stop smoke-emitting vehicles from plying on roads across the province. The traffic police and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will set up joint checkpoints for the purpose. A letter has been issued to all City Traffic Officers (CTOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs).

The letter, issued by SSP Headquarters Syed Nadeem Abbas, directs that joint checking teams be formed from the traffic police, the EPA and the Transport Department. No smoke-emitting vehicle is to be allowed on the road.

According to the letter, action will also be taken against vehicles carrying sand, debris and chaff uncovered. Covering such loads with tarpaulin will be mandatory. Headlights, back lights, fog lights and indicators on all vehicles, including motorcycles, must be working. Reflective tape and stickers have been ordered on commercial and heavy transport vehicles, loaders and tractor trolleys.

The letter also orders a stronger crackdown on over-speeding, racing and dangerous driving. In fog-hit areas, parking of heavy vehicles on the road and road shoulder will be stopped. Drivers will be made aware of the need to keep a safe distance between vehicles, slow down and use fog lights.