EPD’s efforts for combating air pollution acknowledged

LAHORE: The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), Government of Pakistan, Monday acknowledged the proactive efforts of the Environment Protection Department (EPD) in combating air pollution in Lahore and other cities of Punjab.

According to NCHR’s Punjab member Nadeem Ashraf, the Commission commended these initiatives as essential to safeguarding the fundamental rights of millions of citizens, including their right to a clean and healthy environment.

A key recommendation highlighted during the November 5, 2024, hearing was to evaluate the quality of fuel being used in Lahore. The Commission stressed the importance of collaborative studies with the EPD and the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) to determine whether vehicle emissions, particularly from motorcycles, comply with environmental standards.

These findings will enable the Commission to address concerns with relevant authorities, such as the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), and to guide policy decisions aimed at improving air quality. The Commission requested a detailed progress report on these measures within four weeks, underscoring the urgency of tackling Lahore's air pollution challenges. This initiative underscores the NCHR’s unwavering dedication to resolving air quality concerns and promoting policies that protect public health and uphold sustainability.