The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has decided to include heavy vehicles in its free vehicle emission testing campaign starting this week, aiming to curb rising pollution levels in Lahore.
The campaign, which began in May 2025, initially focused on motorcycles and cars. So far, 158,000 vehicles have been tested, with only 4,100 failing the emission standards. The EPA has now extended the testing deadline to August 31, after which the tests will become chargeable.
To streamline operations, the number of testing booths has been reduced from 26 to 20, each staffed with a three-member team and equipped with three testing devices. The reduction comes after several booths were found unsuitable due to space or operational issues, causing difficulties for the public and EPA staff.
According to officials, this move addresses Lahore’s deteriorating air quality, which experts attribute largely to vehicular emissions. Reports suggest that over 83% of winter smog in Lahore originates from vehicle exhaust.
In the next phase, EPA squads will test heavy vehicles lacking a valid Vehicle Inspection and Certification System (VICS) certificate. Such vehicles will get a one-week grace period to obtain the required document.
The EPA also plans to extend testing hours and develop a long-term strategy to control emissions across the province.
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