For the first time in history, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab has implemented a drone-based environmental monitoring system, marking a major leap toward transparency and digital compliance reporting.

Under this new initiative, drones are being used to collect environmental evidence and monitor emissions from brick kilns across the province.

The EPA Green Force has played a key role in helping brick kiln owners adopt zero-pollution and zigzag technology models, significantly reducing harmful emissions.

According to the EPA, all brick kilns located around the Motorway corridor have now been mapped.

On October 15, teams inspected 112 kilns, out of which 77 were found compliant, emitting only white smoke.

Only one kiln was discovered producing black smoke, and an FIR has been lodged against it.

Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb praised the EPA Force’s continuous field efforts, noting that no kiln has been sealed or fined so far, a sign of improved environmental responsibility among kiln operators.

“The EPA Force is monitoring kiln chimneys 24 hours a day through live drone feeds.

This is the spirit through which we can collectively fight environmental pollution.” said Maryam Aurangzeb.

She added that full compliance is being ensured throughout Punjab and commended kiln owners for cooperating with the government’s clean air drive.