The National Assembly Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination has recommended regular vehicle emission testing in Islamabad and urged updates to the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997, to address current environmental challenges.
The committee, chaired by Munaza Hassan, also expressed concern over the absence of a National Environment Report for the past decade.
Officials from the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency said the first report since 2016 is being prepared with the Sustainable Development Policy Institute and will be published by December 15, 2026.
Members reviewed Pak-EPA’s legal mandate, institutional capacity and enforcement performance under the 1997 law. The chairperson raised concerns over inconsistencies in the data submitted to the committee.
Pak-EPA officials said air monitoring systems are being installed and efforts are under way to control transport-related pollution. They also said the agency is working with the Capital Development Authority to introduce electric buses in Islamabad.
Munaza Hassan said the agency should focus more on preventing pollution instead of relying mainly on monitoring. She also questioned progress on the Air Quality Management Plan and asked for details of short-term measures.
The committee recommended encouraging car-pooling among ministry and Pak-EPA officials through a social media campaign to reduce vehicular emissions. It also said spot checks were not enough and called for regular inspections and mandatory emission testing for vehicles operating in Islamabad.
Officials told the committee that 50 diesel-powered commercial vehicles had been inspected so far and 11 fined. The committee also sought a report on water testing, environmental standards and laboratory performance.
Pak-EPA officials said the agency is facing shortages of funds and staff and is moving toward digitisation. The committee asked for details of employees on deputation and the reasons for their postings.
Members also recommended strengthening the ministry’s social media presence and updating the 1997 Act, especially its schedule on international environmental treaties.
A briefing on Margalla Hills National Park and other protected areas was deferred because the chairperson of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board was absent.
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