By In a major step toward environmental sustainability and public health protection, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab has enforced a province-wide ban on low-quality fuel that fails to meet the standards set by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). This move is expected to significantly reduce air pollution and improve fuel efficiency across the region.
New Fuel Quality Standards in Punjab
Under a new order signed by EPA Director General Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, all fuel retail outlets in Punjab are strictly prohibited from storing, selling, or purchasing gasoline and high-speed diesel that do not comply with OGRA-approved specifications. The EPA has officially declared such fuels as sub-standard and environmentally hazardous, warning that their use poses serious risks to both human health and ecological balance.
Immediate Implementation and Legal Consequences
The order is already in effect across all districts of Punjab and will remain enforceable until further notice. Fuel stations and vehicle owners found in violation of the ban may face strict legal action, including fines and penalties under Punjab’s environmental protection laws.
Additionally, vehicles running on non-compliant fuel will be subject to inspection and may be penalized for violating environmental regulations.
Government-Wide Enforcement and Public Awareness Campaigns
To ensure effective implementation, the EPA has instructed commissioners, deputy commissioners, and local authorities to enforce the ban rigorously. The government has also initiated public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the health hazards of sub-standard fuel and the benefits of using OGRA-compliant fuel types.
The EPA encourages the public to report any fuel stations suspected of selling low-grade fuel through official helplines and complaint portals.
Why This Ban Matters: Health, Environment, and Air Quality
The use of low-quality fuel is a major contributor to vehicular emissions, including harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, and particulate matter. These emissions are directly linked to respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and rising air pollution levels in major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi.
This ban is a crucial part of Punjab’s broader efforts to:
- Improve Air Quality Index (AQI) levels
- Reduce vehicular emissions
- Support clean energy initiatives
- Align with international environmental standards
A Step Toward Cleaner, Safer Punjab
The EPA’s province-wide ban on sub-standard fuel marks a turning point in Punjab’s journey toward a greener and healthier future. By ensuring that only high-quality, OGRA-compliant fuels are available in the market, Punjab is not only protecting its citizens’ health but also taking a firm stance on environmental conservation and climate action.
For continued updates and guidelines, follow the EPA Punjab’s official website and local government channels.
