Rawalpindi Starts Anti-Smog Action Against Smoke-Emitting Vehicles

The Suthra Punjab Agency (SPA) in Rawalpindi has ramped up monitoring and public awareness efforts to combat escalating air pollution and smog concerns. Following orders from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, an anti-smog awareness drive was launched in Shakrial, Faizabad, Pirwadhai, Girja Road and Commercial Market. The SPA's managing director, Rana Sajid Safdar, oversaw the campaign.

Inspections yielded 65 warnings as the anti-littering squad identified violations across various locations. Citizens, shopkeepers, and traders were cautioned that waste dumping and uncontrolled burning contribute significantly to air pollution, endangering public health and the environment. An awareness pamphlet drive was conducted to encourage proper waste disposal and adherence to cleanliness protocols.

SPA officials emphasized that smog control is a collective responsibility involving citizens, traders, and commercial center administrators. They pledged to maintain regular inspections, public awareness initiatives, and enforcement actions to curb pollution and foster a cleaner, healthier environment. Concurrently, traffic police initiated a comprehensive crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles, as directed by Rawalpindi's Chief Traffic Officer Farhan Aslam.

Special squads and checking teams were formed to inspect vehicles at bus stops and city entry/exit points. Vehicles emitting excessive smoke would face stringent fines and impoundment until their fitness certificates are obtained. Trolleys without tarpaulins or loaders spewing dirt and waste would also be subject to penalties. According to a traffic police survey, smoke-emitting vehicles contribute 40-83 percent of smog, alongside environmental degradation and heightened accident risks.

The traffic police education wing has been activated to educate the public about pollution's detrimental effects through awareness activities in schools, government/private organizations, and key roads. Motorists are urged to maintain their vehicles properly and adhere to environmental and traffic regulations to help alleviate air pollution and smog in Rawalpindi.