Islamabad vehicle emission testing

Islamabad has introduced a new and more structured system for vehicle emission testing, marking a major shift in how the city plans to control air pollution, streamline motorway travel, and regulate older vehicles. With the growing number of automobiles in the federal capital and increasing concerns about air quality, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has unveiled a series of measures to tighten vehicle inspections and expand road-facilitation facilities.

Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon announced that only vehicles manufactured in 2015 or earlier will now be required to undergo mandatory emission inspections. These inspections will be conducted once a year, and motorists whose vehicles pass the test will receive an official clearance sticker. This sticker will serve as proof of compliance with Islamabad’s environmental and road-safety regulations.

The decision comes at a time when the federal capital continues to experience rising pollution levels, especially during winter when smog becomes a recurring threat. The administration believes that regulating older vehicles, which are more likely to emit harmful smoke and gases, can significantly reduce the city’s pollution footprint.

Extended Hours to Facilitate Citizens

To make the process more convenient, the ICT administration has extended inspection hours for citizens. Emission testing is now available every Saturday until 4 PM, a change introduced specifically to help working individuals who cannot visit testing centers during weekdays. The DC stated that this extension aims to prevent last-minute rushes and ensure a smoother experience for all motorists.

The city previously had only one designated testing center, which often led to long queues and delays. Understanding the need for a more accessible system, the administration decided to expand the network across Islamabad.

Four New Emission Testing Locations Across the City

To make emission testing easier and more efficient, Islamabad has increased the number of inspection sites from one to four. Motorists can now get their vehicles tested at the following locations:

• D-Chowk

• Lake View Park

• F-9 Park

• Metro Cash & Carry

These locations were selected because they receive high traffic and are easily accessible from all major sectors of Islamabad. Each site has been equipped with vehicles testing machines approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The systems measure smoke levels, carbon emissions, and gas discharge to ensure compliance with national environmental standards.

Officials emphasized that expanding these sites will help reduce overcrowding and improve the overall processing time. Each location has been designed to provide enough space for vehicles to move in and out smoothly, eliminating the bottlenecks commonly seen at single testing points.

Road Facilitation Expanded: 10 New M-Tag Counters Launched

In addition to expanding the emission testing system, the ICT administration has also launched 10 new M-Tag counters. These counters have been set up to help motorists complete motorway registration without traveling long distances or getting stuck in peak-hour queues.

The new M-Tag counters are located at:

• Kachnaar Park, I-8

• 26 Number area

• F-9 Park

• Tarlai

• Gulberg Green

• Lake View Park

• Excise Office at MRU

• F-7 Gol Market

• Metro Cash & Carry

• Parade Ground

These stations were strategically chosen due to high public footfall and accessibility from surrounding sectors. As winter travel increases and more people plan inter-city trips, the administration expects the demand for M-Tag registration to grow. Staff members have been deployed at each site to manage the workload and guide motorists through the registration process.

Compliance With EPA Standards

The newly installed emission testing systems operate according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s criteria. Vehicles are screened to determine whether they meet acceptable smoke and gas release limits. If a car fails the test, motorists will be advised to repair the vehicle and return for retesting.

The EPA emphasizes that repeated exposure to toxic vehicle emissions contributes significantly to respiratory illnesses, especially in children and the elderly. By tightening control over older vehicles, the Islamabad administration aims to enhance public health and improve environmental quality.

Administration’s Message to the Public

Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon personally inspected the emission testing and M-Tag facilities across the city. He urged citizens to complete their testing process on time rather than waiting for deadlines. He also stressed the importance of cooperating with the teams deployed at each site.

The administration has advised motorists to carry all relevant vehicle documents during inspection to avoid delays. It further reminded citizens that M-Tag registration is mandatory for motorway entry and that completing emission testing beforehand can help avoid on-the-spot inspections or penalties.

For assistance, Islamabad residents can contact the ICT helpline at 051-9108084 or visit the administration’s official website and social media pages for real-time updates.

Conclusion

The introduction of mandatory Islamabad vehicle emission testing, expansion of testing centers, and launch of new M-Tag counters mark significant steps toward cleaner air, safer roads, and more efficient travel. These reforms underscore Islamabad’s commitment to environmental protection and smoother transportation management. By regulating older vehicles and offering multiple service points, the administration aims to create a healthier and more organized urban environment for all residents.