ISLAMABAD: In a significant move to promote environmental sustainability and reduce air pollution, the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has issued a letter to all schools and colleges in the federal capital, directing them to ensure vehicular fitness and reduce the use of pressure horns in buses.

This initiative follows a meeting between the director general of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the director general of the FDE, where the importance of reducing air pollution and promoting environment-friendly practices in Islamabad was discussed.

The letter directed schools and colleges to take immediate action to ensure that all vehicles used for transportation were properly maintained and met environmental standards. Additionally, the use of pressure horns in buses would be strictly prohibited.

According to Pak-EPA, this initiative aimed to reduce air pollution, create a healthier environment for students, and promote sustainable practices in educational institutions.

The FDE had also urged schools and colleges to promote environmental education and awareness among students, teachers, and staff.

“We are committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for our students, and this initiative is a step in the right direction,” said Tanwir Ahmed, Director General of the FDE.

“We urge all schools and colleges to take this directive seriously and work towards reducing air pollution and promoting sustainability.”

The EPA had welcomed this initiative and had offered to provide technical assistance and support to schools and colleges to help them comply with environmental regulations.

In November last year, in response to the escalating air pollution, the Pakistan Environment Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) had issued urgent appeals to various government departments to combat smog and deteriorating air quality, attributed to vehicular emissions and construction projects.

According to Director General Farzana Altaf Shah, vehicular emissions were responsible for “nearly 40-45 per cent” of the air pollution. She identified dust from construction projects as the second major contributor.

Pak-EPA appealed to the inspector general of police, traffic police, and the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce (ICCI) asking for support to control air pollution and smog in the capital territory. It specifically directed its attention to the Capital Development Authority (CDA), urging it to take immediate action to control dust emissions from several ongoing projects, notably the extension of Park View Road, the 10th Avenue, and various crossings in E-11 and D-12 areas. Additionally, it highlighted the need for strict measures to curb the burning of solid waste and agricultural residue within the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).

Published in Dawn, May 10th, 2024