Strict Restrictions Imposed to Combat Smog in Islamabad

The Islamabad Capital Territory Administration (ICTA) has imposed restrictions to reduce smog and air pollution, mandating the closure of all brick kilns and smoke-emitting factories.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon, convened a meeting with Assistant Commissioners, the Islamabad Transport Authority (ITA), and the Excise Department to discuss strict measures to mitigate emissions across the city.

Following the meeting, it was decided that factories producing smoke would be temporarily shut down, while all brick kilns would remain closed until further notice. Additionally, vehicles emitting smoke are now banned from the roads within the Islamabad Capital Territory.

The outdoor burning of garbage, leaves, and other materials is also prohibited, and activities that harm the environment will face restrictions. The Islamabad Transport Authority (ITA) has been conducting regular inspections to enforce these measures.

During a recent ITA-led inspection, several vehicles at the vegetable market were checked for emissions. Nine cars were penalized for excessive smoke emissions, and warning letters were issued to 27 others. Daily inspections are underway to ensure vehicles across the city meet emission standards.

DC Irfan Memon emphasized that these actions are preventive measures to manage air pollution levels before they lead to severe smog conditions, aiming to create a cleaner, healthier environment for residents.

In related news, the Lahore district administration has banned outdoor activities due to rising smog levels. According to a notification from DC Lahore, outdoor activities will be suspended from November 11 to 17. All sports, exhibitions, events, and outdoor dining are on hold; however, religious gatherings are exempt. Shops, markets, and malls must close by 8 PM, except for essential services like medical stores, labs, petrol pumps, and grocery stores. Large department stores may keep only grocery and medical sections open.

A Punjab police spokesperson reported that in the past 24 hours, 14 people were arrested, and 91 FIRs were filed for non-compliance with SOPs. Additionally, fines amounting to 8.28 lakh rupees were issued to 458 individuals, with 33 others cautioned.

Authorities noted 38 cases of crop residue burning, 359 instances of smoke-emitting vehicles, 3 violations in industrial activities, 27 related to brick kilns, and 24 other infractions. Overall, 2,161 people have been arrested, with 2,627 cases filed for breaches of government SOPs.