RAWALPINDI: The Department of Environmental Protection and Climate Change has announced the smog season from October 15 to January 15, 2026, and launched a series of strict measures to control air pollution in Rawalpindi Region and Islamabad.
An immediate ban has been imposed on brick kilns without zig-zag technology, stone-crushing plants, the burning of tyres for black oil extraction, and the burning of waste, crop residues, tyres, and plastics. Emissions from vehicles, motorcycles, tractors, factories, bakeries, and industrial units have also been prohibited.
Violators will face FIRs, imprisonment from six months to two years, and fines ranging from Rs200,000 to Rs2 million.
The department has started anti-smog operations across the Rawalpindi Division and the twin cities. From November 15 to January 15, all 258 brick kilns in the area will remain closed.
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Awareness campaigns have also begun in educational institutions and other sectors. Enforcement against smoke-emitting vehicles and factories started on October 6. Brick kiln owners have been warned not to operate without zig-zag technology.
Air quality monitoring will begin next week. The Agriculture Department has been directed to stop crop burning, while the Regional Transport Authority and Traffic Police have been ordered to take action against polluting vehicles, including impoundment.
All government and private schools have been instructed to ban outdoor sports, playground activities, and assemblies from Monday, October 6. School heads have received an anti-smog advisory to raise awareness among students, teachers, and parents about the health risks of smog.
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The advisory stresses the importance of wearing masks, drinking more water, avoiding outdoor exposure, and giving special care to children with asthma or respiratory issues. Schools must promote awareness through social media and submit reports to the concerned authorities.
Schools have also been told to keep classrooms clean and ventilated, close doors and windows during heavy smog, and avoid burning waste. Proper waste disposal should be ensured, and a record of students with breathing or heart problems must be maintained.
Each district will appoint a focal person to coordinate with health authorities and provide immediate help during emergencies.
