Punjab New Rule for Traffic Police and Suthra Punjab Teams

The Punjab government has introduced a significant new policy aimed at safeguarding frontline workers from hazardous environmental conditions. Under this initiative, it is now mandatory for all traffic police officials and Suthra Punjab workers to wear protective face masks during duty hours. The rule comes amid worsening air quality levels across Lahore and other major cities of Punjab due to seasonal smog and vehicular pollution.

This move underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to public health, worker safety, and air pollution control, as part of its larger anti-smog SOPs Punjab campaign directed by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

Punjab Government Introduces Mask Mandate for Frontline Teams

According to an official notification issued on Tuesday, all traffic wardens deployed on busy intersections and Suthra Punjab sanitation staff working in the open environment are required to wear face masks to minimize exposure to smog and airborne pollutants.

The directive was issued on the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who emphasized the urgent need to protect workers constantly stationed in high-risk zones. The order also requires departmental heads and supervisors to strictly monitor field compliance and ensure continuous supply of protective masks and safety gear to their teams.

Officials stated that non-compliance will result in administrative action, as worker safety remains a “non-negotiable priority” under the government’s environment protection agenda.

Objective Behind the Punjab New Rule for Traffic Police and Suthra Punjab Teams

The Punjab New Rule for Traffic Police and Suthra Punjab Teams is a direct response to rising concerns about airborne health hazards caused by smog, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution.

Punjab’s major urban centers, especially Lahore, have consistently recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) levels between 220 and 260, which fall under the “unhealthy” category. These conditions pose severe health risks, particularly for workers stationed outdoors for extended periods.

By enforcing mandatory mask usage, the government aims to:

• Reduce respiratory illnesses among frontline staff.
• Encourage the use of protective and preventive safety equipment.
• Ensure compliance with anti-smog SOPs Punjab.
• Promote overall workplace health awareness within public service departments.

Enforcement Strategy and Departmental Oversight

The Punjab government new policy is being implemented through joint coordination between the Traffic Police, Local Government Department, and the Environment Protection Department (EPD).

All field officers have been directed to carry out regular checks to verify mask compliance. The government has also ensured that sufficient medical-grade masks and filtration respirators are available for distribution among staff.

Senior officials at the Suthra Punjab Secretariat have confirmed that additional safety measures are being introduced, including:

• Distribution of protective eyewear to workers in high-dust zones.
• Limiting exposure hours for those working near highways or industrial zones.
• Medical check-ups for staff reporting respiratory or skin-related issues.

District monitoring teams will compile weekly progress reports for submission to the Chief Minister’s Office, ensuring that field implementation remains consistent across all cities.

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Broader Anti-Smog Measures Across Punjab

The Punjab New Rule for Traffic Police and Suthra Punjab Teams is part of the province’s larger environmental strategy launched under the anti-smog operation Punjab.

This includes:

• Crackdowns on smoke-emitting vehicles and unregistered brick kilns.
• Continuous water sprinkling on roads to reduce dust levels.
• Sealing of factories violating emission standards.
• Coordination between the Traffic Police, EPD, and Waste Management authorities to reduce local pollution hotspots.

Officials have also urged the public to adopt eco-friendly practices such as maintaining vehicles, avoiding garbage burning, and minimizing unnecessary travel during smog peaks.

Protecting Suthra Punjab Workers on the Ground

The Suthra Punjab program, a flagship sanitation and cleanliness initiative, involves thousands of workers who perform daily cleaning, waste collection, and road maintenance tasks. These workers are among the most exposed to dust, smoke, and chemical residues.

Under the new directive, every sanitation worker must now wear a protective mask and reflective safety vest during duty hours. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that workers receive proper equipment and training on how to use it.

The Punjab government has also announced that Suthra Punjab teams will receive monthly health assessments to detect early signs of respiratory or cardiovascular illness caused by pollution exposure.

Read More: Punjab Govt Air Pollution Measures Improve Lahore AQI

Maryam Nawaz’s Focus on Worker Health and Public Welfare

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has consistently prioritized public welfare and worker protection as part of her broader vision for a “Clean, Green, and Safe Punjab.”

In her recent statement, she said:

“Our frontline heroes—traffic wardens and sanitation workers—serve in conditions that directly expose them to pollution. Their protection is our collective responsibility. This new rule ensures that the people who keep our cities functional are safeguarded against the harmful effects of smog.”

Her administration’s air pollution control measures have drawn praise for being proactive and people-centered, emphasizing both health protection and environmental sustainability.

Impact on Lahore’s Air Pollution Control Efforts

Lahore remains the focal point of Punjab’s air pollution control drive. The city consistently ranks among the most polluted globally during smog season.

Experts from the Punjab Environment Protection Department believe that the government’s latest mask mandate will not only protect workers but also raise public awareness about health risks linked to poor air quality.

Recent data shows that consistent enforcement of anti-smog SOPs Punjab has already led to a 10–15% improvement in AQI levels during mid-October. Authorities hope this trend will continue as stricter controls are maintained.

Public Awareness and Compliance

Alongside policy enforcement, the government has launched a public awareness campaign through television, radio, and social media. Citizens are being advised to wear masks, avoid outdoor exercise during peak smog hours, and report any violations through designated helplines.

Posters and banners with safety messages have been placed near major intersections and public offices to promote awareness among both workers and commuters.

Conclusion

The Punjab New Rule for Traffic Police and Suthra Punjab Teams marks a crucial step in the province’s environmental protection strategy. By mandating face masks for those most exposed to pollution, the Punjab government has reinforced its commitment to safeguarding public servants and improving urban health standards.

As smog season intensifies, this rule symbolizes the government’s proactive approach—balancing environmental management, worker safety, and public responsibility. With strong enforcement and community cooperation, Punjab aims to set a new benchmark for sustainable urban living and clean air governance.