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ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP):Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry told the National Assembly on Thursday that the government is taking firm and targeted measures to curb rising pollution in Islamabad, focusing on strengthening monitoring systems, improving enforcement and expanding clean public transport across the federal capital.
Responding to Calling Attention Notice moved jointly by Aliya Kamran, Naeema Kishwar Khan, Shahida Begum and Muhammad Usman Badini regarding deteriorating air quality in Islamabad, Dr Tariq said Islamabad is nationally recognised for its greenery and clean air, yet rapid population growth, heavy vehicle inflow from across the country and increasing tourist movement have placed significant pressure on the city’s environment.
He added that the Islamabad administration and the Ministry of Climate Change are taking coordinated steps to ensure emission control and environmental compliance.
The minister said action is being taken against smoke-emitting vehicles, while electric buses and electric bikes have been introduced to reduce harmful emissions. He further informed the House that, for the first time, every sector, union council and adjoining rural area in the capital is connected through an integrated electric-bus network.
Aliya Kamran briefly pointed out that despite ongoing measures, air quality indicators had worsened compared to the previous year.
Responding to the concerns, Chaudhry said the government is addressing all major contributing factors and visible improvement will follow as enforcement continues to intensify. He added that Rawalpindi’s cooperation is essential given the shared air shed of the twin cities, and the Punjab government is taking parallel actions to curb emissions.
He said strict vehicle checks, expansion of electric public transport and the closure of smoke-emitting brick kilns are already underway and will continue with greater focus.
The minister reaffirmed that the government remains committed to ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for citizens and will continue taking all necessary steps to protect Islamabad from long-term environmental degradation.