SMOG EMERGENCY: Islamabad bans polluting vehicles and industries

Islamabad : As toxic smog grips Punjab province, Islamabad’s administration has moved to protect residents by banning smoke-emitting vehicles, factories, and brick kilns, along with prohibiting the burning of waste and crops.

The urgent measure aims to mitigate the health risks posed by the dangerous mix of smoke and fog, according to officials. The ban, enacted by the additional district magistrate under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, is now in effect for the next two months.

Authorities have issued stern warnings against violations and promised strict enforcement. In an alert, the Enviro­nmental Protection Agency (EPA) cautioned that smog was expected to linger in Islamabad and Rawalpindi from now through February. It urged the administration of the capital to implement additional preventive measures to protect the health of residents.

In a letter addressed to the deputy commissioner, the EPA emphasised the need for a ban on smoke-emitting industries and vehicles, highlighting the growing smog crisis affecting not just Islamabad and Rawalpindi, but also cities like Lahore, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Multan, and Faisalabad. It also predicted worsening air quality in the Potohar region in the coming days. With serious health risks associated with smog, including respiratory, cardiac, eye, and skin problems, doctors have warned that harmful chemicals could worsen existing health issues.

They recommend that vulnerable populations—particularly children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions—wear masks during outdoor activities, rinse their mouths, and avoid unnecessary outings, especially during peak pollution hours from 10 AM to 4 PM.