Abdul Ghani

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) has inspected more than 800 vehicles in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) as part of its stepped-up efforts to curb smog and improve air quality in the region.

According to details available with Wealth Pakistan, the inspection campaign targeted both private and commercial vehicles to ensure compliance with emissions standards. Several vehicles found violating the environmental regulations were flagged to bring them into compliance.

Pak-EPA’s smog management initiatives extend beyond transportation emissions. The agency has converted more than 30 brick kilns in ICT to cleaner, environmentally friendly technologies, including the Zigzag system, which substantially reduces particulate emissions. This conversion drive forms a key component of the broader strategy to mitigate pollution from industrial sources.

To reinforce compliance, Pak-EPA has strengthened monitoring of industrial emissions by installing surveillance cameras at critical points such as chimneys and furnaces. These systems provide continuous oversight and help ensure factories comply with environmental standards.

In addition, Pak-EPA is preparing to introduce electric vehicle (EV) policies in collaboration with the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). The planned measures aim to promote cleaner transportation options and gradually reduce reliance on older, high-emission vehicles.

The agency has also launched public awareness campaigns through ICT platforms and social media to educate citizens on the importance of lowering emissions and adopting eco-friendly technologies. These campaigns are designed to support long-term behavioural change and enhance public participation in improving air quality.

The combined initiatives reflect Pak-EPA’s comprehensive approach to addressing smog in Islamabad by targeting pollution from vehicles, industrial units and brick kilns, alongside broader efforts to encourage cleaner technologies and environmental responsibility.

Credit: INP-WealthPk