In a concerted effort to address Islamabad’s deteriorating air quality, the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), in collaboration with the Islamabad police, has relaunched its vehicle emission testing campaign.
The initiative resumed on June 12, following the Eidul Azha holidays, and is part of a broader strategy to reduce harmful emissions and improve the city’s air quality.
Nazia Zaib Ali, Director General of Pak-EPA, explained that the campaign aims to protect both the environment and public health from the growing pollution caused by vehicular carbon emissions.
The testing process began at key locations with heavy traffic flow, including the Mundi police checkpost near Metro Mall and the Faizabad Interchange on the Islamabad-Lahore route.
During the first two days of the campaign, inspection teams from Pak-EPA and the Islamabad police found that most vehicles tested emitted smoke levels between 10% and 40%. However, vehicles exceeding the 60% threshold were issued challan tickets.
The ongoing drive emphasizes the importance of regular vehicle maintenance to meet emission standards and reduce air pollution.
Pak-EPA remains committed to enhancing compliance and improving air quality across Islamabad. Zaib Ali further stated that the campaign will expand to other parts of the city in the coming weeks, highlighting the shared responsibility of vehicle owners in maintaining cleaner, healthier urban environments.