RAWALPINDI: The district administration of Rawalpindi is stepping up its crackdown on sources of air pollution, such as automobiles, brick kilns, and industrial facilities, as part of a continuous attempt to tackle the city’s rising smog levels. Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema offered a novel solution to the problem, recommending a trial program to promote bicycling as a mode of transportation for public servants.
Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema was quoted in The Express Tribune as saying the administration was considering a pilot project to get more government employees to commute using bicycles.
A minimum of five to ten workers from every government office will have to regularly ride their bicycles to work during the first phase, according to Cheema. “Specifically, it will be mandatory for young government employees to ride their bicycles to work.”
He said the initiative would enhance their well-being and also discourage the usage of cars or motorcycles for commuting purposes.
As part of these efforts, the district administration would also organize a cycle rally as part of a campaign to combat smog and air pollution. He said it was part of measures to reduce the volume of vehicles on the roads. It would include adding bicycles and making the street bike-friendly, which would have a positive impact on air quality, he continued.
