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Islamabad's Clean Air Drive: Smoke Hounds Face New Crackdown
1 Dec
Summary
- Vehicles emitting excessive smoke face strict action in Islamabad.
- Pak-EPA warns of fines, confiscation for polluting vehicles.
- Vehicular smoke is a major cause of smog and respiratory illnesses.
Islamabad is facing a renewed push by the Pakistan Environment Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) to combat vehicular pollution. The agency has warned that vehicles emitting excessive smoke will face severe penalties, including on-the-spot fines and potential confiscation. This enforcement drive targets a major source of the capital's air quality issues and frequent smog episodes.
Pak-EPA Director General Nazia Zaib Ali stressed that operating smoke-emitting vehicles is an environmental crime, prioritizing public health. The intensified vigilance comes amid growing concerns over poorly maintained diesel buses, trucks, rickshaws, and motorcycles releasing hazardous emissions. These pollutants degrade air quality and contribute to smog formation.
Local health experts highlight that vehicular smoke exacerbates respiratory distress, asthma, and allergies. Long-term exposure poses risks of chronic diseases, impaired lung development in children, and increased heart conditions. The agency urges public cooperation in maintaining smoke-free vehicles and reporting polluters for cleaner air.
