Islamabad: In a bid to tackle worsening air pollution and enforce environmental standards, the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) launched a targeted operation against outdated and non-compliant brick kilns in the H-16 and H-17 sectors of Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).
The enforcement teams sealed five brick kilns found operating illegally without adopting the environment-friendly zigzag firing technology. These kilns were using the traditional Fixed Chimney Bull Trench Kilns (FCBTKs), a highly polluting method of brick production that significantly contributes to smog and deteriorating air quality.
According to Mohammad Saleem Shaikh, spokesperson for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, the kilns had previously been issued warnings and directives to convert to zigzag technology — a modern, energy-efficient method that reduces harmful emissions. Despite multiple notices, the kiln operators failed to comply, prompting enforcement action under the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997.
“These kilns were not only in violation of environmental laws but also posed serious health and environmental hazards to surrounding communities,” Saleem said.
Pak-EPA Director General Nazia Zeb Ali stressed that the agency maintains a zero-tolerance policy for practices that damage public health and the environment. “The strict enforcement of environmental laws will continue, and violators at any level will be dealt with sternly,” she said.
She added that the crackdown is part of a broader clean-air campaign to promote sustainable industrial practices in the capital. The agency has been actively pushing for the adoption of zigzag kiln technology, which arranges bricks in a pattern that enhances airflow, improves fuel efficiency, and significantly lowers emissions.
The operation was launched following numerous public complaints and prior field inspections. It marks a renewed commitment by environmental authorities to improve Islamabad’s air quality through strict regulation of industrial activities.
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