In its ongoing efforts to combat smog in Rawalpindi, the district administration is intensifying actions against smoke-emitting industrial units, vehicles, and brick kilns. Proposing an innovative approach, Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema disclosed that a pilot project is under consideration to encourage more government employees to commute via bicycles.
In the initial stage, each government office will be required to designate a quota of five to ten employees, particularly focusing on young staff, to regularly commute using bicycles. Cheema highlighted that this initiative aims to improve employees’ well-being while discouraging the reliance on cars or motorcycles for commuting purposes.
As part of this initiative, the district administration plans to organize a cycle rally as a component of its campaign against smog and air pollution. The goal is to reduce vehicular traffic by promoting cycling and creating bike-friendly streets, subsequently positively impacting air quality.
Simultaneously, the administration is sustaining its crackdown on vehicles, industrial units, and brick kilns contributing to smog. Cheema emphasized that strict accountability measures are in place, with penalties totaling Rs0.9 million imposed on 15 smoke-emitting industrial units and fines amounting to Rs350,000 levied on 30 brick kilns, leading to the sealing of two kilns. Additionally, 3,370 vehicles have been issued challans for emissions, resulting in fines of Rs1.928 million.
Highlighting the anticipated benefits of these measures, Cheema emphasized cost savings, improved health, and a reduced contribution to air pollution. Meanwhile, Ibrahim Hasan Murad, the provincial caretaker transport minister, announced plans to launch cost-effective electric bikes, with government employees being offered electric bikes on lease. Surveillance cameras from the Safe City project will be used to identify smoke-emitting vehicles, ensuring owners face punitive action.
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