EPD urges industries to control smog
PHOTO: FILE
The Environment Protection Department has issued a directive to all chambers of the province, including the president of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, instructing them to take measures to mitigate smog caused by industrial pollution in their respective areas.
In this regard, notices have been issued to the industries mandating the installation of smog-free and environmentally-friendly devices in their industrial units. These notices also contain instructions for the Presidents of the Chamber of Commerce, emphasising the implementation of eco-friendly modern technology prior to the onset of the smog season.
Under the directives of the Environment Protection Department, industrial units failing to implement environmentally-friendly devices and technology will face the consequence of closure, accompanied by substantial fines.
The Environment Department reports that within the Rawalpindi district, there are approximately 10,000 small and large factories and units, in addition to brick kilns, stone crushers, vehicles emitting smoke, improper disposal of garbage, crop burning, hospital waste dispersion, uncovered delivery of building materials, bakeries, open mobile units for fattening, and the burning of plastic tires in scrapyards. These activities are identified as significant sources contributing to the creation and dissemination of black smog.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 23rd, 2023.