ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a comprehensive campaign to combat smog and strengthen environmental protection measures across Islamabad. A high-level meeting, chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa, was held at CDA Headquarters to finalize strategies for cleaner air and a sustainable urban environment. The session was attended by environmental expert Rizwan Mehboob, Member Environment Esfandyar Baloch, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon, and senior officials. The Chief Conservator of the Sindh Forest Department also joined via Zoom.

Chairman Randhawa highlighted that, following the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, smog mitigation and pollution control are now top national priorities. He directed all departments to enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) rigorously and adopt a results-oriented approach to ensure a cleaner, greener Islamabad.

To curb vehicular emissions, the leading cause of urban air pollution, the CDA has made vehicle carbon emission testing mandatory, requiring certification through accredited laboratories. The Chairman ordered strict enforcement and penalties for violators to ensure compliance across the Capital.

The meeting also reviewed industrial and brick kiln emissions. Authorities reported that non-compliant brick kilns are being demolished, and all remaining units must shift immediately to eco-friendly technologies. Chairman Randhawa imposed a complete ban on open waste burning and directed legal action against offenders.

To reduce dust pollution from development sites, the CDA will enforce regular water sprinkling and full compliance with Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) guidelines. Environmental expert Rizwan Mehboob recommended large-scale afforestation with air-purifying plants, community awareness campaigns, and promotion of carpooling to reduce vehicular traffic.

The Sindh Forest Department briefed on its successful Indus Delta Blue Carbon Project, offering insights into carbon credit generation. The CDA plans to replicate similar initiatives in Margalla Hills National Park and other green zones through Public Private Partnership (PPP) models. The meeting reaffirmed CDA’s commitment to sustainable urban development, air quality improvement, and environmental resilience in Islamabad.