The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) Islamabad has announced that it will launch a strict crackdown against all types of smoke-emitting vehicles in the federal capital from November 17. This initiative is being taken to control air pollution ahead of the smog season.
During this campaign, vehicles will be randomly checked at different locations across the city, and on-the-spot emissions testing will be conducted. Vehicles found emitting smoke beyond the permissible limit will face fines or confiscation. This was stated by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Muhammad Saleem Sheikh, in his statement on Sunday.
He said the smog season is approaching, which poses serious risks to both public health and the environment. “It is our collective responsibility to protect ourselves, our families, and our environment from the harmful effects of air pollution and smog,” the spokesperson said.
Saleem Sheikh added that smog is caused by vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, and the burning of garbage or crop residues, and it is extremely dangerous for children, the elderly, and people suffering from respiratory illnesses. It also causes environmental degradation, poor air quality, crop damage, and reduced visibility.
He emphasized that public cooperation is essential to make Islamabad clean and green. Government efforts can only succeed with the active participation of citizens.
The spokesperson urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, use public transport, maintain their vehicles regularly to minimize smoke emissions, and refrain from burning waste or leaves in open areas.
He further advised all vehicle owners to get their vehicles’ smoke tested and obtain clearance stickers from the Pak-EPA designated centers before November 17 to avoid fines. For more information, vehicle owners can contact the Pak-EPA Islamabad office from Monday to Friday, between 9 AM and 5 PM, at phone number 051-9250713.
