Capital adopts green tech to curb smog

Certified emission tests for vehicles made mandatory

ISLAMABAD:

In an effort to curb smog and protect the environment in the federal capital, authorities have decided to make carbon emission testing for vehicles mandatory through certified laboratories in Islamabad. At the same time, brick kilns and industries responsible for generating smog will be shifted to modern, environment-friendly technologies. A complete ban has also been imposed on open burning of garbage, with strict legal action to be taken against violators.

These decisions were made in a meeting chaired by CDA Chairman and Islamabad Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Tuesday at the CDA Headquarters. The meeting was attended by environmental expert and forester Rizwan Mehmood, Member Environment Asfandyar Baloch, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, and other senior officials. The Chief Conservator of Sindh Forest Department and his team also joined the meeting via Zoom.

During the session, a number of measures were approved to counter smog, reduce air pollution, and strengthen environmental protection in Islamabad. CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasised that, as per the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reducing smog, improving air quality, and ensuring environmental protection are among the government's top priorities. He directed the concerned departments to adopt a comprehensive strategy and ensure strict implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Officials briefed the meeting that multiple steps are already being taken to address smog generated from the transport sector, brick kilns, and industries. It was informed that brick kilns continuing to violate environmental regulations and refusing to adopt modern technology are being demolished under the law.

Chairman Randhawa directed that all kilns and industries in the capital must be converted to modern, eco-friendly technology, while open-air burning of garbage must remain strictly prohibited, with offenders facing legal consequences. He further instructed that regular water sprinkling at construction sites be ensured to control dust from development projects, and all ongoing projects must comply with Pak-EPA regulations and SOPs.

Environmental expert Rizwan Mehmood suggested that tree plantation campaigns should prioritize plant species capable of absorbing pollutants and improving air quality. He also stressed the need for community-level awareness campaigns and promoting carpooling to reduce vehicular emissions.