The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Field Office in Sialkot has intensified its crackdown on tanneries failing to relocate to the officially designated Sialkot Tannery Zone. In a recent action, officials sealed washing drums at ten tanneries and issued formal notices to three others that had not complied with relocation requirements.
According to EPA representatives, the operation targeted facilities that continue to operate outside the designated industrial zone, in violation of environmental regulations. The sealing of washing drums is a step aimed at halting production activities at non-compliant sites, thereby compelling businesses to shift their operations to the approved tannery zone.
In addition to the enforcement measures, the EPA has formally notified three tanneries, warning them of stricter actions should they continue operations in their current locations. The agency emphasized that these measures are part of broader efforts to address environmental pollution caused by the tannery industry and to ensure that all operators adhere to the region’s environmental guidelines.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to continue monitoring and enforcement in order to safeguard local communities and the environment from industrial pollutants. The EPA has urged all remaining tanneries outside the Sialkot Tannery Zone to promptly relocate, warning that further violations will result in more stringent penalties.
