Punjab’s Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb on Tuesday inaugurated the anti-smog gun developed by the students of the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore.

The innovative device, designed by UET engineering graduates, was praised as a major technological breakthrough in the fight against environmental pollution.

Speaking at the ceremony, Marriyum Aurangzeb praised the UET team for their efforts, calling the anti-smog gun a “remarkable achievement” by the university.

She congratulated UET Vice-Chancellor Dr Syed Shahid Munir and his team for their contribution to environmental protection and assured that the Punjab Government will fully benefit from this gun made with advanced technology.

“The Punjab government prioritises addressing the issue of smog. Innovations like the one presented today reflect the potential of our academic institutions to deliver real-world solutions to critical challenges.”

During the event, Vice-Chancellor Dr Shahid Munir briefed participants on the functionality and design of the anti-smog gun.

He explained that the weapon has a range of 40 metres and is equipped with a modern dust separation system capable of controlling particulate matter at construction sites, stone-crushing plants, and during mining operations.

“This device is specifically engineered to reduce dust and airborne pollutants in high-risk areas, making it a practical tool for improving urban air quality,” Dr Munir said.

Punjab’s Minister for Education, Rana Sikandar Hayat, also attended the ceremony and extended his congratulations to the UET team.

He emphasised the importance of such innovations in tackling societal issues and reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening academia-industry linkages.

“UET has always taken practical steps to solve real-world problems,” said Rana Sikandar.

“We will turn UET into a hub of innovation and ensure full financial support for its projects. Our ministry is committed to promoting collaboration between academia and industry.”

The launch of the anti-smog gun marks a crucial advancement in the province’s ongoing environmental initiatives, especially as smog season approaches.

The device is expected to play a key role in reducing pollution levels across major urban centres in Punjab.