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ISLAMABAD, Nov 04 (APP): The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has pledged a strong crackdown on smog and environmental pollution in the capital, with Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa calling for urgent and comprehensive action.
Speaking at a high-level meeting on Tuesday, Randhawa said reducing air pollution and safeguarding Islamabad’s environment were “top priorities” under directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
He stressed that a clear strategy, backed by strict enforcement of standard operating procedures, was essential to tackle smog.
Randhawa directed that all vehicles in the capital undergo mandatory carbon emission testing at certified laboratories.
He warned that brick kilns and industries failing to adopt modern, environmentally friendly technologies would face strict legal action, including demolition where necessary. Open-air waste burning will be completely banned, with violators prosecuted.
Construction projects across the city were instructed to control dust through water sprinkling, while full compliance with Pak-EPA regulations and SOPs will be enforced.
Forester Rizwan Mehmood called for planting pollution-controlling tree species, promoting carpooling, and raising public awareness at the community level.
The Sindh Forest Department also briefed the meeting on mangrove restoration projects under the under-delta blue carbon initiative.
Plans to launch carbon credit projects in Margalla Hills National Park and other green areas were also discussed.
Randhawa urged public-private partnerships to achieve these goals, with the Sindh Forest Department’s expertise leveraged for guidance.
The meeting concluded with a firm commitment to reducing smog, improving air quality, and advancing environmental protection across Islamabad.
The meeting, held at CDA headquarters, included senior officials such as Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, Environmental Member Asfandiyar Baloch, and environmental expert forester Rizwan Mehmood. Representatives from the Sindh Forest Department also joined via video link.