Rawalpindi authorities intensify efforts as smog threat grows

Rawalpindi:Commissioner of Rawalpindi Division, Engineer Amir Khattak, chaired a high-level meeting on Tuesday to address rising smog levels in the region. The meeting brought together key officials, including the Additional Commissioner Coordination, Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi, Secretary of the Regional Transport Authority (RTA), Chief Traffic Officer, Deputy Director Environment, CEO Health, and other relevant officers. An Anti-Smog Committee, comprising representatives from the RTA, Environment Department, and Traffic Police, provided a comprehensive briefing on recent actions taken against sources of pollution.

Since July 2024, 24 brick kilns identified as major contributors to smog have been demolished, and fines totaling Rs8.1 million have been levied. Additionally, two industrial units found in violation of environmental regulations were sealed, with penalties amounting to Rs900,000 imposed. In efforts to curb vehicular emissions, authorities issued 2,711 fines to smoke-emitting vehicles, seized 441 non-compliant vehicles, and collected fines totalling Rs550,000.

Commissioner Khattak noted that smog, which has already impacted Lahore and other divisions, is now affecting Rawalpindi, with winds from neighbouring regions intensifying the pollution levels in Punjab cities. He emphasized that the Punjab government has allocated a substantial Rs10 billion for smog prevention efforts, including the implementation of artificial rainfall to mitigate air pollution.

A district-level Anti-Smog Committee, led by Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Hasan Waqar Cheema, has launched a crackdown on pollution sources. This includes targeting vehicles emitting smoke, banning the burning of garbage and crop residue, and enforcing standards for kilns operating without zigzag technology.

The Health Department has also issued a public advisory, urging residents to stay indoors whenever possible and to use masks if they must go outside. “Smog causes eye irritation and respiratory issues, affecting children, adults, and the elderly,” Commissioner Khattak warned. In response to escalating health concerns, the Punjab government has announced the closure of all educational institutions, both public and private, in eight districts, including Rawalpindi. Schools in these areas will remain closed from Wednesday through November 17 as a preventive measure.