Vehicle Emission Testing Resumes in Islamabad to Combat Rising Air Pollution

Vehicle emission testing has officially resumed in the federal capital, with renewed efforts to curb harmful vehicular emissions and improve air quality. The campaign, spearheaded by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) in collaboration with Islamabad Police, resumed on June 12 after a temporary pause during the Eidul Azha holidays.

The initiative comes amid growing concerns over the deteriorating air quality in Islamabad, primarily driven by emissions from aging and poorly maintained vehicles. The program is part of a broader urban sustainability plan aimed at reducing transportation-related pollution in high-traffic zones.

Strategic Locations for Testing

Initial testing operations have been launched at traffic-heavy areas such as:

• Mundi Police Checkpoint (near Metro Mall)
• Faizabad Interchange (Islamabad-Lahore corridor)

These checkpoints serve as focal areas for enforcing compliance and raising public awareness.

Emissions Monitoring and Penalties

According to Nazia Zaib Ali, Director General of Pak-EPA, the emission testing teams are monitoring vehicles for smoke levels. Acceptable smoke emissions fall within the 10% to 40% range, but vehicles exceeding 60% smoke emission are being fined on the spot.

Zaib Ali emphasized that the campaign is not only punitive but also educational. “We aim to make motorists understand the consequences of unchecked emissions on both health and the environment,” she said.

Long-Term Vision: Expanding the Initiative

The authorities have announced plans to expand the campaign across more sectors of Islamabad in the coming weeks. This expansion reflects Islamabad’s long-term commitment to achieving sustainable urban living and improving public health.

Why This Matters?

Unchecked vehicular emissions contribute significantly to airborne particulate matter, leading to respiratory illnesses and environmental degradation. Routine vehicle maintenance, including proper tuning and timely oil changes, plays a vital role in reducing emissions.

This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader climate goals and serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility—between institutions and individuals—towards building a cleaner, greener capital city.

The vehicle emission testing drive in Islamabad marks a crucial step in enforcing environmental regulations and promoting eco-conscious driving. As the campaign gains momentum, residents are encouraged to ensure their vehicles meet the required standards and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable Islamabad.

Afsheen Gohar

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