Pakistan launches “world’s first dust suspension system” in Lahore to fight smog
Punjab capital set to become the first ‘dust-free city’ under new plan
DUBAI/LAHORE: In a pioneering environmental move, Lahore has become the first city in the world to deploy a tested and proven Dust Suspension System to combat chronic smog and dust pollution.
Announced by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on social media platform X, the initiative marks a critical step in transforming urban air quality using cutting-edge technology.
Alhamdulilah the first ever world tested dust suspension system comprising of 15 Anti Smog Guns has arrived in Lahore and is being assembled. These advanced fog cannons spray ultra fine water mist to capture harmful airborne particles, including PM2.5 & PM10, forcing them to… pic.twitter.com/aa3JoEIoK0
— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) August 1, 2025
Fifteen advanced anti-smog fog cannons have arrived in Lahore. These machines disperse ultra-fine water mist into the air to capture harmful particulate matter such as PM2.5 and PM10, effectively pulling it down to ground level and cleansing the environment.
Dust suspension system
The dust suspension system will be integrated with Lahore’s Air Quality Monitoring Network and the Environmental Protection Force. According to the CM, the system is designed to activate automatically when pollution levels spike, ensuring a dynamic and responsive approach.
In addition, the deployment is supported by satellite data, drone surveillance, QR-coded brick kilns, and an AI-based tracking system. This integration enables precise detection and targeting of pollution hotspots across the city.
Maryam Nawaz has labelled the programme a “revolutionary step for environmental protection,” urging citizens to support the mission through cooperation and awareness.
Pakistan’s first ‘dust-free city’
Further strengthening its environmental policies, the Punjab government also announced its broader vision to transform Lahore into Pakistan’s first “dust-free city.”
Housing and Urban Development Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal revealed the plan during a meeting at the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) headquarters.
A comprehensive dust-control strategy will now govern all future construction and development activities. Under new SOPs, all projects must comply with strict dust-reduction protocols. Additionally, legislation will soon regulate commercial property exteriors for visual harmony and environmental sustainability.
Secretary Mengal underlined the need for uniform construction standards across all departments. “Unplanned, haphazard construction and mismatched buildings degrade the environment and disrupt the city’s heritage,” he noted.
Digital reform drive
LDA DG Tahir Farooq reported that the authority generated a record-breaking Rs25 billion in revenue this year, the highest in its history. The LDA has also moved fully to digital processes, including property record digitisation and an online system for building plan approvals.
As part of its urban management efforts, the LDA reclaimed 990 kanals of illegally occupied land valued at billions of rupees. A new digital monitoring unit will now oversee construction activities within LDA-controlled zones to ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
The provincial government is also planning to launch The Yellow Line Bus Rapid Transit project next summer.