Twin cities enforce strict smog controls | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- Strict pre-emptive measures, including bans on polluting activities (e.g., non-compliant brick kilns, waste burning), have been imposed ahead of the smog season (Oct 15 - Jan 15, 2026).
- All 258 brick kilns in the Rawalpindi Division and Islamabad district will be closed from November 15 to January 15.
- Severe penalties, including imprisonment (6 months to 2 years) and substantial fines, are established for offenders violating the new regulations.
- Schools are ordered to ban all outdoor sports and activities starting October 6 and initiate awareness campaigns regarding smog health risks and precautions.
- Enforcement operations targeting smoke-emitting vehicles, factories, and industrial units began on October 6, with air quality monitoring set to start next week.
The Department of Environmental Protection and Climate Change has announced stringent pre-emptive measures for the smog season, scheduled from October 15 to January 15, 2026, targeting the Rawalpindi Region and Islamabad district. Immediate bans have been placed on brick kilns lacking zig-zag technology, stone crushing, burning waste or crop residues, and emissions from vehicles and industrial units, with offenders facing imprisonment and heavy fines. All 258 brick kilns in the division will cease operations from November 15 until January 15, while enforcement actions targeting smoke emitters commenced on October 6. The Department of Agriculture must prevent crop burning, and transport authorities are tasked with impounding polluting vehicles. Additionally, all government and private schools must ban outdoor sports and events starting Monday, October 6, and conduct comprehensive awareness campaigns emphasizing health precautions like mask-wearing and reduced outdoor exposure for students and staff. Schools must also ensure proper ventilation and maintain records of students with respiratory conditions to prepare for potential emergencies.
