Islamabad May Introduce Mandatory Vehicle Emission Testing
Islamabad: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination has recommended introducing regular vehicle emission testing in Islamabad to help control air pollution and reduce transport-related emissions.
The committee also called for amendments to the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997, arguing that the law needs to be updated to address the country’s evolving environmental challenges.
Committee Calls for Regular Vehicle Inspections
The meeting, chaired by Munaza Hassan, reviewed the legal authority, institutional capacity and enforcement performance of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA).
Members stressed that occasional spot checks are insufficient and recommended mandatory and regular emission testing for vehicles operating in the capital.
The committee also proposed promoting car-pooling among ministry and Pak-EPA employees through a social media campaign as part of efforts to reduce vehicular emissions.
50 Diesel Vehicles Inspected
Pak-EPA officials informed the committee that 50 diesel-powered commercial vehicles had been inspected so far.
Of these, 11 vehicles were fined for violations. The committee, however, called for a more systematic inspection mechanism rather than relying primarily on occasional checks.
Officials said air-quality monitoring systems are also being installed, while measures are being taken to address pollution caused by transportation.
Electric Buses Planned for Islamabad
Pak-EPA officials told the committee that the agency is working with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) on plans to introduce electric buses in Islamabad.
The initiative is expected to support efforts to reduce emissions from the transport sector and improve the capital’s air quality.
Munaza Hassan said the agency should place greater emphasis on preventing pollution rather than simply monitoring it. She also sought an update on the Air Quality Management Plan and details of the immediate steps being taken to improve air quality.
National Environment Report Due by December
The committee also expressed concern over the absence of a National Environment Report for approximately a decade.
Officials said the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency is currently preparing the first such report since 2016 in collaboration with the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI).
The report is expected to be published by December 15, 2026.
Committee Raises Concerns Over Environmental Data
During the meeting, lawmakers also questioned inconsistencies in environmental data submitted to the committee.
Members requested further information on water testing, environmental standards and the performance of laboratories responsible for environmental assessments.
The committee emphasized the need for reliable data and stronger enforcement to support effective environmental policymaking.
Pak-EPA Faces Staff and Funding Shortages
Officials acknowledged that the environmental protection agency is facing shortages of both financial resources and staff.
The agency is also moving toward greater digitisation of its operations. The committee asked officials to provide details regarding employees working on deputation and the reasons for their postings.
Environmental Law Proposed for Update
The committee recommended amendments to the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997, particularly provisions related to international environmental treaties.
Members said the existing legal framework should be updated to reflect present-day environmental requirements and emerging challenges.
A briefing on the Margalla Hills National Park and other protected areas was postponed because the chairperson of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board was not present at the meeting.
