The Islamabad administration has announced a major crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles to curb the city’s deteriorating air quality. The drive, led by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA)[1] in coordination with local police and transport authorities, will officially begin on November 17.
The initiative comes at a critical time as Islamabad, like many other Pakistani cities, faces worsening air pollution[2] during the smog season. Vehicle exhaust, factory emissions, and open burning of waste have all contributed to dense smog blanketing urban areas each winter. Health experts warn that breathing polluted air increases the risk of asthma, heart disease, and other respiratory illnesses.
According to Mohammad Saleem Sheikh, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, the campaign aims to curb emissions before smog conditions intensify. Sheikh said in a statement:
“The smog season poses serious risks to public health and the environment. Protecting ourselves, our families, and our surroundings from the harmful effects of air pollution is a collective responsibility.”
To tackle the problem, authorities will conduct on-spot emission tests for vehicles across the city. Those passing the test will receive clearance stickers, while violators will face hefty fines or even vehicle impoundment. Special teams will set up checkpoints in key areas, ensuring that old, unmaintained, or diesel-fueled vehicles are kept off the roads. Officials have also urged citizens to voluntarily service their cars and refrain from open burning, which further exacerbates the situation. Vehicle testing has already begun through stationary and mobile units deployed at key entry points, including D-Chowk near Parade Ground, F-9 Park, and Islamabad Expressway. Mobile teams are also conducting surprise checks in busy commercial and high-traffic areas.
Public awareness campaigns will accompany the enforcement phase. The government plans to utilize print, electronic, and social media to educate the public about the dangers of pollution and the importance of proper vehicle maintenance. Officials stress that citizens’ cooperation is vital to the success of this crackdown. Without public participation, even strict policies tend to lose their effectiveness. Sheikh stressed:
“There will be no progress without public cooperation. The success of this campaign depends on how seriously the public responds.”
Appealing to citizens, Sheikh said:
“Vehicular emissions are one of the leading causes of air pollution in urban areas and pose a serious threat to public health. We are taking all possible measures to address this issue, especially to protect vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.”
However, the operation will face challenges. Many vehicle owners may resist paying for emissions tests or upgrading faulty engines. Ensuring fair implementation without corruption will also be a key concern. Moreover, air pollution is not limited to Islamabad alone; neighboring regions like Rawalpindi and Lahore also contribute significantly to the overall air quality index.
Despite these hurdles, the move represents an important step toward cleaner and healthier cities. If Islamabad’s campaign succeeds, it could become a model for other urban centers in Pakistan. Cleaner air will not only reduce healthcare costs but also boost productivity and improve citizens’ quality of life.
Ultimately, the crackdown sends a strong message that environmental neglect is no longer acceptable. Pakistan can finally begin to reverse years of environmental damage and take a decisive step toward a sustainable future. This is possible only with continued enforcement and public support.
References
- ^ Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) (environment.gov.pk)
- ^ air pollution (environment.gov.pk)