In order to address the growing problem of smog in the Rawalpindi Division smoke emitting cars have been fined. To ensure the implementation of new rules, Commissioner Saqib Manan has issued an urgent directive to enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) strictly. He believes that this is a fundamental step that must be taken in order to ensure that the air quality is improved and kiln owners are encouraged to upgrade their operations.
Last month, the authorities in Rawalpindi district took a strict stance against smoke-emitting vehicles by fining 3,559 such vehicles and collecting a total of Rs. 2.1 million in penalties as a result. Not only this, but they also went so far as to completely close an industrial plant due to its violation of environmental regulations and subsequently imposed a fine of Rs. 100,000 on it. During anti-smog operations, authorities filed FIRs against 73 rule violators and sealed 62 brick kilns in Rawalpindi, 27 in Chakwal, and 18 in Attock.
The authorities plan on eliminating the root causes of smog and that is why several hundred smoke-emitting cares were fined.
Fines Collected From Smoke-Emitting Cars
The spokeswoman for the division stated that a total of Rs. 6.4 million worth of fines were collected from polluters in order to enforce environmental regulations. Additionally, the Commissioner has further directed all brick kilns to be immediately converted to newer and more efficient technologies as soon as possible in order to ensure maximum environmental protection.
In order to ensure that industrial units, brick kilns, transporters, and other potential sources of air pollution comply with the regulations, the local authorities have threatened to take strict action against those who fail to meet their standards. Burning crop debris or driving smoke-emitting vehicles will also be met with harsh penalties for those caught in violation.
What are your thoughts on this? Do you think smog can be reduced by taking these steps, or should the government focus its resources elsewhere? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
This is a good step to push people to drive efficiently, and to maintain their cars on time.
Now what about Euro 5 fuel ? Will they make it mendatory all over country ? This is what will help with environment and health issues.