Islamabad: Nearly one in every five heavy transport vehicles operating in the Federal Capital has been found violating national emission standards. This was revealed in a new report released by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA).
According to Radio Pakistan, the report titled ‘Consolidated Report on Vehicular Emission Monitoring and NEQS Compliance within Islamabad Capital Territory’ indicates that these violations pose a growing threat to Islamabad’s air quality and public health. The findings are based on a week-long enforcement drive which concluded on October 30.
The report identified aging diesel trucks, long-haul trailers, loaders, and diesel-powered passenger buses as major violators emitting pollutants well above the National Environmental Quality Standards due to poor engine maintenance and substandard fuel. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Muhammad Saleem Shaikh, stated that emissions from ageing diesel-fueled heavy vehicles are a major contributor to smog formation and respiratory illnesses in Islamabad.
The enforcement operation was conducted by teams led by Deputy Directors Dr. Zaigham Abbas and Mr. Binyameen under the supervision of Director General Pak-EPA, Ms. Nazia Zeb Ali. A total of 100 heavy-duty vehicles were inspected for smoke opacity – an indicator of incomplete combustion and particulate pollution. Sharing details, Dr. Zaigham Abbas noted that 20 percent of the vehicles tested failed to meet the permissible NEQS limits, underscoring the need for regular monitoring and stricter maintenance of diesel-powered vehicles to protect public health and the environment.
Non-compliance was primarily due to poor engine condition, lack of maintenance, and use of low-quality fuel. Several non-compliant vehicles belonged to both public and private sector organisations, reflecting a systemic neglect of vehicle maintenance. According to Pak-EPA officials, fines were imposed on twenty-one violators while three vehicles were impounded for severe non-compliance. Owners were directed to undertake immediate engine maintenance to bring their vehicles in line with environmental standards.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson said vehicular emissions are among the major sources of deteriorating air quality in the Federal Capital, with diesel-powered transport identified as the single largest emitter of black carbon and particulate matter. The report recommends a comprehensive review of the vehicle fitness certification system to align its standards with NEQS for exhaust and noise emissions, ensuring uniform compliance across inspection stations and workshops.
Reaffirming Pak-EPA’s resolve to curb vehicular pollution, Director General Nazia Zeb Ali stated that regular emission monitoring drives and awareness initiatives will be continued in collaboration with Islamabad Traffic Police.