Islamabad: Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, held a meeting on Monday with a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to discuss smog mitigation, environmental protection, and air quality improvement in Islamabad. The ADB delegation included Senior Financial Sector Economist Andrew McCartney and members of the bank’s urban team.
During the meeting at CDA Headquarters, Chairman Randhawa emphasized that environmental protection, including reducing smog and air pollution, is among the top priorities for the capital. He highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including the adoption of the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NECA) regulations in Islamabad’s Electric Vehicle (EV) policy and the introduction of 160 eco-friendly electric feeder buses using CDA’s own resources.
Randhawa also noted that vehicle carbon emission tests are being conducted to control pollution from the transport sector and that more air quality monitoring stations are planned to provide accurate data for an authentic Air Quality Index.
The CDA is preparing to launch a modern solid waste management project to address garbage-related pollution, with a feasibility study underway to establish a scientific landfill site. Additionally, plans are being explored to facilitate the acquisition of carbon credits through environment-friendly projects in the city, with ADB providing technical support for green financing.
The ADB delegation confirmed its commitment to providing technical assistance for these initiatives, including the preparation of Islamabad’s first Transport Master Plan and the Inter-City Bus Terminals project.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to strengthen cooperation between CDA and ADB to improve air quality, promote sustainable development, and ensure a healthier environment for the citizens of Islamabad. Chairman Randhawa stated that these measures aim to make Islamabad a model of environmental sustainability for the entire country.
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