Rawalpindi set to introduce electric buses to combat air pollution

In an effort to improve transport facilities for Rawalpindi's residents, a decision has been made to launch 102 environmentally friendly electric buses.

The decision was made during the 39th meeting of the Provincial Development Working Party held on October 25.

The Punjab Government has given administrative approval for the completion of the project for the year 2024/25, with the completion deadline set for November 2025. This project will cover an area of 84 kilometers and will have 10 routes.

The electric bus service project is valued at over Rs 7 billion, with the Punjab Government releasing Rs 4.7 billion for it.

The Punjab Mass Transit Authority will be responsible for the implementation of the project. The bus project is expected to be beneficial in reducing air pollution.

LHC orders vehicle inspections

Justice Shahid Karim of the Lahore High Court (LHC) has ordered the Transport Department to impound vehicles belonging to government departments if they fail to undergo inspection at Vehicle Inspection and Certification System (VICS) stations within the next 15 days.

In a detailed order issued Monday, Justice Karim addressed multiple petitions concerning measures to combat smog, reduce pollution, and protect groundwater resources.

During previous proceedings, it was revealed that a notification was issued on November 23, forming a committee to review existing laws related to smog control, with a particular focus on emissions from the transport sector.

Justice Karim instructed the committee to complete its review and propose amendments within one month, emphasizing the urgency of the issue.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported significant progress in reducing PM2.5 emissions from the industrial sector over the past eight months, thanks to coordinated efforts across various departments.

Measures targeting industries, brick kilns, pyrolysis plants, and fugitive dust have also contributed to mitigating pollution levels.