One in Five Heavy Vehicles in Islamabad Failing Emission Tests

News Desk 

Islamabad:  Nearly 20 per cent of heavy transport vehicles in Islamabad are breaching national emission standards, a Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) study has revealed, raising concerns about the city’s deteriorating air quality.

The report, Consolidated Report on Vehicular Emission Monitoring and NEQS Compliance within Islamabad Capital Territory, found that 20 of 100 tested heavy vehicles — including diesel trucks, long-haul trailers, loaders, and passenger buses — failed to meet the National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS) for exhaust emissions. Violations were largely linked to poor engine maintenance and the use of substandard fuel.

“Emissions from ageing diesel vehicles are a major contributor to smog and respiratory illnesses in Islamabad,” said Muhammad Saleem Shaikh, spokesperson for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination.

The findings emerged from a week-long enforcement drive, which concluded on October 30 under the supervision of Pak-EPA Director General Nazia Zeb Ali, with field teams led by Deputy Directors Dr Zaigham Abbas and Baniyameen. Inspections focused on smoke opacity levels — a key indicator of particulate pollution caused by incomplete combustion.

Describing the results as “alarming,” Dr Abbas warned that the high level of non-compliance reflects systemic negligence, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and poor accountability.

Pak-EPA issued fines to 21 violators, impounded three vehicles for severe breaches, and instructed owners to carry out immediate repairs. Several non-compliant vehicles belonged to public and private sector organisations, highlighting weak institutional enforcement.

Shaikh stressed that diesel-powered transport is a major source of black carbon and fine particulate matter, posing serious risks to human health and the environment. “Without stricter monitoring and cleaner transport practices, Islamabad’s air quality will continue to decline,” he said.

The agency has called for a review of Pakistan’s vehicle fitness certification system to align inspection standards with NEQS, ensuring consistent enforcement nationwide.

DG Nazia Zeb Ali reaffirmed Pak-EPA’s commitment to improving air quality, pledging regular monitoring drives and collaboration with Islamabad Traffic Police to promote eco-friendly, roadworthy transport. “Clean air is a fundamental right,” she said. “Ensuring compliance with environmental standards is essential to safeguard public health and preserve Islamabad’s ecological integrity.”