ISLAMABAD: Authorities in Islamabad have announced a series of measures to curb smog, reduce air pollution, and protect the environment in the capital. The directives were issued during a high-level meeting at CDA Headquarters, jointly chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa and Pak-EPA Director General Nazia Zeb Ali.
Officials said a comprehensive joint strategy will be implemented to tackle pollution, focusing on the transport, industrial, and brick kiln sectors. Vehicle emission tests are being conducted across the city, with real-time data monitored through an integrated digital dashboard. Additional checkpoints will be established to strengthen monitoring.
All brick kilns and industrial units in Islamabad have been directed to adopt modern, eco-friendly technology, with a deadline of 20 October 2025 for kilns to switch to the zigzag system. Repeat violators contributing to air pollution may face legal action or the dismantling of their facilities. The ICT administration will also coordinate with Rawalpindi authorities to manage kilns located near the boundary areas.
To expand air quality monitoring, one station is already functional in Sector H-8, with more stations planned across the city. Open-air waste burning has been banned, and legal action will be taken against violators. All ongoing construction projects are required to implement water sprinkling systems and adhere to mitigation measures outlined in their Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).
Chairman Randhawa emphasized that these initiatives, in line with directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, aim to maintain a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment for residents of Islamabad.