Capital ramps up anti-smog measures

Decides to close all brick kilns in ICT until further notice

ISLAMABAD:

In a bid to combat the rising air pollution and smog levels in the federal capital, the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner chaired a meeting with assistant commissioners, the Islamabad Transport Authority (ITA) and the Excise Department to announce stricter measures to reduce harmful emissions citywide.

As part of the new restrictions, the district administration has decided to close all brick kilns in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) until further notice. Factories emitting smoke will also be temporarily shut down to help alleviate smog levels. Additionally, smoke-emitting vehicles will be banned from the roads within ICT.

The meeting also led to a ban on the open burning of garbage, leaves, or any other materials, with authorities emphasising that any activities contributing to environmental harm will face strict penalties. In line with these efforts, the Islamabad Transport Authority (ITA) has ramped up inspections across the city to enforce these measures.

During a recent inspection at the vegetable market, led by the ITA Secretary, several vehicles were checked for emissions. As a result, nine vehicles were fined for excessive smoke emissions, and warning letters were issued to 27 others.

Daily operations have now been put in place to monitor vehicles across the city to ensure compliance with emission standards. The DC stated that these steps are part of a proactive effort to prevent the air pollution levels from worsening into severe smog conditions. The initiative aims to create a cleaner, healthier environment for Islamabad's residents.