Old Diesel Vehicles Major Cause of Islamabad Air Pollution

Air pollution in Islamabad is worsening, and experts say old diesel vehicles are a major cause.
A new report by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) highlights alarming pollution levels from heavy transport.

Diesel Vehicles Identified as Main Polluters

According to a recent Pak-EPA report, diesel-powered heavy vehicles are the biggest contributors to air pollution in the federal capital.
The findings reveal that 20% of heavy vehicles in Islamabad violate national environmental quality standards.
That means one in every five heavy vehicles emits smoke above the permissible limit.

Joint Inspections by Pak-EPA and Islamabad Police

The report states that Pak-EPA and Islamabad Traffic Police conducted joint inspections on October 28 and 30, 2025.
Vehicle smoke and noise levels were tested in Sector I-11 and along Srinagar Highway.

Out of 100 inspected vehicles, 20 failed to meet environmental standards.
Authorities fined 20 vehicles and impounded three for releasing extreme levels of smoke.

Recommendations for Stricter Vehicle Fitness Rules

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency has recommended a review of the vehicle fitness certification system to ensure only environmentally compliant vehicles operate in Islamabad.

Officials say stricter enforcement and regular emission testing are essential to tackle rising pollution.

According to the Ministry of Climate Change and Pak-EPA, vehicular emissions remain one of the top contributors to urban air quality deterioration in Pakistan.

Key Points:

• Old diesel vehicles are the biggest cause of air pollution in Islamabad.

• 20% of heavy vehicles exceed allowed pollution limits.

• Joint inspections conducted on Oct 28 & 30, 2025.

• 20 vehicles fined, 3 impounded for severe pollution.

• Pak-EPA recommends stricter vehicle fitness certification.

• Air quality in Islamabad continues to decline due to emissions.

The Pak-EPA report underscores the urgent need to modernize public and freight transport.
Environmental experts say upgrading old diesel vehicles and enforcing emissions standards could significantly improve Islamabad’s air quality.

❓ FAQs:

1. What is the main cause of air pollution in Islamabad?
According to Pak-EPA, old diesel-powered heavy vehicles are a major contributor to air pollution in Islamabad.

2. How many vehicles failed the emission test?
Out of 100 vehicles inspected, 20 failed to meet environmental standards, while 3 were taken off the road.

3. What actions has Pak-EPA recommended?
Pak-EPA has proposed revising the vehicle fitness certification system to enforce emission compliance.