Air quality worsens ahead of smog season
The anti-smog season is set to commence on October 15, but alarmingly, air pollution levels have already begun to surge in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, as well as in Murree.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached hazardous levels, with Islamabad recording a reading of 85, Rawalpindi at 98, and Murree at 148. Moreover, neighbouring districts in the Rawalpindi division are also experiencing critically high AQI levels, including Attock at 154, Chakwal at 155, and Jhelum at 154.
The Department of Environmental Protection and Climate Change has initiated enforcement actions under the Anti-Smog Act in Rawalpindi division, targeting polluting brick kilns. Under its anti-smog initiative, five brick kilns in Attock were demolished for non-compliance with emission standards and failure to adopt zigzag technology. Additionally, two more kilns were razed in Rawalpindi district.
Five volunteers from villages along the motorway and GT Road have been enlisted to ensure a comprehensive anti-smog operation. Equipped with a dedicated helpline, these volunteers can promptly report incidents of crop littering, tyre burning, or other pollution-related activities in their areas. Upon receiving such reports, the local police station, under the supervision of the assistant commissioner, swiftly responds to the location and takes immediate action against the offenders.
The department concerned has issued a stern red warning to brick kilns failing to adopt eco-friendly technology, directing them to cease operations immediately. Non-compliant kilns will now face demolition rather than sealing. Additionally, orders have been issued to seal tyre shops and workshops that engage in environmentally hazardous practices, such as extracting oil from tyres through burning.
From October 15, air pollution in Rawalpindi division and Islamabad will be monitored daily. Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema has initiated a comprehensive plan to combat air pollution in Rawalpindi division and Islamabad. Starting October 1, the environment department will launch a strict operation against entities failing to properly dispose of hazardous waste from brick kilns, hospitals, and medical labs.
The agriculture department will tackle crop burning, while the transport authority will crack down on smoke-emitting vehicles. Additionally, the Civil Defence will target factories and industries emitting harmful smoke.
The anti-smog season in Rawalpindi division will commence on October 15 and continue until January 31.