LAHORE: Lahore has introduced a new e-challan system to tackle littering and improve cleanliness across the city. The Suthra Punjab Authority launched the initiative on Tuesday as a pilot project.
The system currently covers 200 commercial markets and major roads. These include The Mall, Jail Road and Ferozepur Road.
Suthra Punjab Authority CEO Shehryar Arif Khan said 25 teams initially began issuing warnings to people involved in littering. The complete enforcement staff includes 75 members, with 50 officials divided between field and supervisory teams.
Fines to begin after September grace period
September will serve as a grace period for citizens and businesses. During this period, teams will focus on warnings and public awareness rather than immediate financial penalties.
Formal fines will begin from October 1. However, residential areas will not initially fall under the e-challan system.
Officials said teams would first educate residents about cleanliness rules. They will also explain that repeated littering constitutes a violation and should not continue.
The system was formally launched during a ceremony at Liberty Chowk. Lahore Deputy Commissioner retired Captain Ali Ejaz and Shehryar Arif Khan attended the event.
Meanwhile, anti-littering squads have been deployed across roads, markets and commercial centres. Their duties include monitoring violations and informing citizens about cleanliness regulations.
Under the new system, warning e-challans will initially carry no financial penalty. However, repeated violations could lead to legal action and fines.
Heavy penalties announced for waste burning
Authorities have outlined strict penalties under the Punjab Local Government Act, 2025 and Suthra Punjab Authority Act, 2026.
People littering in public places could face fines ranging from Rs1,000 to Rs10,000. Meanwhile, failing to maintain cleanliness outside homes, shops or factories could attract fines up to Rs50,000.
Businesses using prohibited plastic bags will also face penalties. Shops could receive fines between Rs1,000 and Rs2,000, depending on the violation.
Waste burning carries much heavier consequences. Offenders could face fines ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs500,000 and imprisonment for up to two years.
Burning tyres could result in a fine of up to Rs500,000. Individuals or industrial units could also face imprisonment for up to seven years.
Furthermore, authorities will require all fines to be paid through banking or digital channels. Officials will not be allowed to accept cash payments.
The authority says the initiative aims to make Lahore cleaner while encouraging residents to dispose of waste responsibly. Teams will also educate citizens about proper waste disposal and applicable cleanliness laws.
