ISLAMABAD: Islamabad has stepped up efforts to curb worsening smog by tightening vehicle emission testing rules, a move officials say is part of a broader push to modernize the capital and bring it closer to international environmental standards, with enforcement currently focused on public transport but set to expand to private vehicles.
Under new instructions issued by the city administration, vehicles manufactured in 2015 or earlier must now undergo mandatory annual emission testing, with authorities warning that cars failing to meet standards could face fines or impoundment as enforcement intensifies.
The initiative comes as air quality across Pakistan has deteriorated sharply with the onset of winter.
Major cities, including Islamabad, have recorded unhealthy to hazardous pollution levels, with PM2.5 concentrations posing serious health risks, particularly for children and the elderly.
In December alone, Islamabad logged seven days classified as “very unhealthy,” with PM2.5 levels exceeding 150 micrograms per cubic meter, according to Swiss air-quality monitor IQAir.
“We are trying to make Islamabad as an international capital and we have started different initiatives,” Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa said, describing the emission drive as part of a wider effort to improve urban standards.
The Shah Faisal Mosque is seen engulfed in dense smog due to severe air pollution in Islamabad on December 9, 2025. (AFP)
He said inspection points had been established to test vehicle engines and emissions, adding that vehicles exceeding prescribed carbon dioxide limits would face penalties.
Officials said the campaign is being led by the Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) in coordination with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
“Our focus right now is on the public vehicles,” Randhawa said, adding that private vehicles whose engines were not “up to the standard” would also face strict action.
To facilitate motorists, the Islamabad Transport Authority has expanded inspection facilities from a single site to four locations: D-Chowk, Lake View Park, F-9 Park and Metro Cash & Carry. Approved vehicles are issued QR-coded stickers, allowing traffic officials to verify compliance quickly.
At the inspection points, teams check exhaust emissions, focusing on carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide levels. Vehicles exceeding permissible limits initially receive warnings and guidance, with stricter action planned as enforcement ramps up.
Many motorists welcomed the move. Usman Munir, who recently had his car tested near D-Chowk, said the service was long overdue.
“I have just undergone a car emission test from here near D-Chowk. My car model is below the year 2015. This is very good service which is needed as vehicle must not spread carbon which causes pollution in the air,” he said.
Another driver, Muhammad Umar, praised both the process and the fact that the testing was free.
“Actually, they are checking exhaust pipes of cars for emissions. We have got our car examined and it is approved. They have posted the sticker on the front and now we can easily enter Islamabad. They have not charged us for this service,” he said.
Officials said the emission drive would continue in the coming months, with enforcement intensifying as awareness grows and compliance improves.
