Overview of Islamabad Smog Control Restrictions
ISLAMABAD: In response to rising air pollutants, the Islamabad Capital Territory Administration (ICTA) has introduced a series of restrictions aimed at reducing smog. Effective immediately, ICTA will close all brick kilns and factories emit smoke to help improve air quality.
Enforcement of Factory and Vehicle Restrictions
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, together with Assistant Commissioners, the Islamabad Transport Authority (ITA), and the Excise Department, held a strategic meeting to plan steps for limiting harmful emissions across the city. They decided to temporarily shut down factories producing excessive smoke, while brick kilns will remain closed until further notice. The administration also prohibited Smoke-emitting vehicles from operating within the Islamabad Capital Territory.
Ban on Outdoor Burning to Curb Pollution
In addition, the administration banned outdoor burning of garbage, leaves, and other materials to prevent further environmental harm. The Islamabad Transport Authority is actively conducting vehicle inspections across the city to ensure pollution control.
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Recent Inspection Results
During a recent inspection led by the ITA Secretary, inspectors fined nine vehicles at the local vegetable market for excessive emissions and issued warning notices to 27 others. Routine checks are now in place to ensure that vehicles meet emission standards.
Preventive Steps for Healthier Air Quality in Islamabad
DC Memon emphasized that these measures aim to prevent air pollution levels from escalating into a severe smog crisis, creating a healthier environment for residents. Meanwhile, in Lahore, the district administration has taken similar action, temporarily suspending outdoors activities from November 11 to 17. These restrictions include halting sports, exhibitions, and outdoor dining, with an exemption for religious gatherings.
Lahore’s Smog Control Measures
Additionally, shops, markets, and malls in Lahore are required to close by 8 PM, except for essential services such as medical stores, labs, petrol stations, and grocery shops. Large retail stores are permitted to keep only their grocery and medical sections open during this period.
Penalties and Actions Taken Against Violators
In support of these initiatives, the Punjab police have taken action against violators, arresting 14 individuals and filing 91 FIRs in the past 24 hours alone. Fines amounting to 828,000 PKR were imposed on 458 individuals, while 33 others received warnings.
Punjab’s Efforts in Tackling Pollution
Reports from Punjab highlight significant efforts to tackle pollution sources, with 38 cases of crop residue burning, 359 violations related to smoke-emitting vehicles, 27 infractions at brick kilns, and 24 instances of industrial non-compliance. To date, 2,161 individuals have been detained and 2,627 cases filed for breaches of government regulations.
These comprehensive measures underscore the government’s commitment to combating smog and maintaining public health amidst worsening pollution levels in Pakistan.
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