ISLAMABAD: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has written to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Islamabad regarding the threat of smog in Islamabad and Rawalpindi from November to February.
According to the report, there is a possibility of smog in the twin cities during this period. In view of this, the Environmental Protection Agency has written to the DC of Islamabad, urging precautionary measures and recommending a ban on brick kilns, industries, and vehicles emitting black smoke to control air pollution.
The EPA has warned that, like Lahore, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Multan, and Faisalabad, Islamabad and Rawalpindi are also under the influence of smog. In the coming weeks, air quality in the Potohar region is expected to deteriorate, similar to eastern and central Punjab.
Read More: Qatar to invest $3 billion in Pakistan: Information Minister
The letter stated that immediate steps should be taken to address the threat of smog during the four months from November to February. It recommended that the DC of Islamabad impose Section 144, close brick kilns emitting black smoke for this period, and take action against vehicles and industries emitting smoke.
Strict action should also be taken against those who burn garbage and crop residues in Islamabad city and its suburbs.
The Environmental Protection Agency notes that smog adversely affects people’s health, the atmosphere, and the economy, while also contributing to heart, respiratory, eye, and skin diseases.
The letter further stated that the EPA is taking steps to prevent smog, but air pollution can only be effectively controlled with the cooperation of the district administration.
