CDA Sets Deadline for Islamabad Brick Kilns to Switch to Zig-Zag Technology

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced October 20, 2025, as the final deadline for all brick kilns operating in Islamabad to shift to zig-zag technology or face strict legal consequences.

The decision was made during a meeting on smog control and environmental protection, co-chaired by CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa and Pak-EPA Director General Nazia Zeb Ali. The session was also attended by Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon and members of the CDA board.

According to a statement issued by the CDA, all brick kilns and industrial units in Islamabad must adopt modern, environment-friendly methods within the given timeframe. “Those who fail to comply will face legal action,” the authority warned.

Currently, around 30 brick kilns operate within the capital. While several have already upgraded to zig-zag technology, a few located near the Rawalpindi-Islamabad border have yet to make the transition.

Chairman Randhawa directed that kilns violating Pak-EPA pollution standards should be dismantled in line with the law. He also called for a joint strategy with the Rawalpindi administration to regulate the border-area units.

The CDA chief emphasized that Pak-EPA and related departments will coordinate closely to ensure the implementation of a comprehensive smog prevention plan across Islamabad.

Deputy Commissioner Memon briefed the meeting on steps being taken to reduce smog, including monitoring smoke-emitting vehicles, brick kilns, and factories. He said vehicle carbon emissions are being checked regularly, with results displayed on a live monitoring dashboard.

Currently, five certified laboratories are conducting emission tests in the city, while the CDA plans to set up additional checkpoints for on-road inspections.

On air quality monitoring, DG Pak-EPA informed participants that a station in Sector H-8 is already operational, with more monitoring units being installed across the capital to provide accurate Air Quality Index (AQI) readings.

The meeting also discussed other contributors to smog, such as open waste burning and dust from construction sites. Randhawa instructed authorities to impose an immediate ban on open waste burning and take legal action against violators. He further directed that water sprinkling be carried out at all development sites to control dust and that Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) guidelines be fully enforced.

Concluding the meeting, Chairman Randhawa stressed that the CDA, Pak-EPA, and ICT administration must work together to ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for Islamabad’s residents.