PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has decided to completely ban traditional brick kilns to control environmental pollution and reduce smog in the province.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all old-style brick kilns in Peshawar must shut down by November 15. The EPA has issued a formal notice to the Brick Kiln Association in this regard.
The EPA said that chimney-based brick kilns are a major cause of air pollution and smog in Peshawar and nearby areas. It noted that many kiln owners have not yet adopted the modern Zigzag technology, which is considered much more environment-friendly.
Under the new order, only Zigzag-technology kilns will be allowed to operate. Traditional kiln owners have been told to convert their systems or face closure.
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The EPA warned that these old kilns pose a serious risk to both the environment and public health. Police and district administrations have been directed to ensure the immediate shutdown of all non-compliant kilns.
Meanwhile, in Punjab, the government has started a province-wide campaign against smoke-emitting vehicles to control rising smog levels.
Director General of Environment Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh said that vehicles producing visible smoke will not be allowed on the roads. He instructed traffic police to launch a strict crackdown against such vehicles starting today.
He also directed that any vehicle without a valid fitness certificate be removed from service immediately. Authorities have also been asked to reduce traffic congestion, especially in busy city areas, to help improve air quality and prevent pollution-related health problems.
