Vehicle emission testing in Lahore has been temporarily halted due to ongoing rain and technical challenges, according to the Environment Protection Department (EPA).
EPA Director General Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh stated that water accumulation on roads due to heavy rain may inconvenience citizens visiting testing booths. To ensure public convenience and protect field staff from adverse weather conditions, the department decided to suspend operations on June 26.
“Due to continuous rainfall, the Emission Testing System (ETS) booths will remain non-operational today,” read a Facebook post by the EPA. “ETS equipment must operate under dry conditions, and public convenience remains our top priority,” it added.
The EPA announced that emission testing will resume on June 27, provided the weather improves and rain subsides.
In response to overwhelming demand, the Punjab government has extended the deadline for vehicle emission testing and the acquisition of green stickers until August 31. The original deadline was June 30.
Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh explained that the extension comes amid extraordinary traffic at the emission testing booths. Over the last 50 days, the EPA has tested around 123,000 vehicles, issuing warnings to 2,000 for excessive emissions. Those owners have been asked to retest their vehicles after necessary maintenance.
It is also important to note that vehicles manufactured in 2022 or later are exempted from the emission testing requirement.
The EPA continues its efforts to reduce air pollution and ensure compliance with environmental standards while accommodating citizens’ convenience during the rainy season.
