ISLAMABAD: The government has imposed Section 144 for two months to curb smog in Islamabad, the federal capital of Pakistan.
The directive, issued by the Additional District Magistrate, bans smoke-emitting vehicles, factories, and brick kilns to curb the rising levels of harmful smog. The administration has prohibited the burning of waste and crops to help prevent further smog formation.
According to the World Air Quality Index website, the air quality index (AQI) in the capital has reached unhealthy levels, with a PM2.5 reading of 151 recorded on Sunday.
The orders related to Section 144 will take effect immediately for the next two months. The district administration has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone who fails to comply with these orders.
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On Saturday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cautioned that smog is expected to persist in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi from November through February.
The EPA sent a letter to the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner urging the implementation of preventive measures and the imposition of Section 144 to protect citizens from smog.
The EPA had called for a ban on smoke-emitting brick kilns, industries, and vehicles.
What is the Air Quality Index?
The Air Quality Index (AQI) tell us how clean or polluted the air is, with scores ranging from 0 to above 500. It is useful for determining whether the air is breathable without endangering one’s health. The figure which it mainly focuses on is called PM2.5 or air quality index.
PM2.5 musk is a tiny particle present in the atmosphere which is not even visible. These particles can come from vehicular emission, industrial production and combustion gases as well. Due to their tiny size, they are capable of entering the human body through the lungs and causing health issues.
The AQI is not static rather it worsens or improves depending on what time of day it is. In case the level of PM2.5 crosses the limit of 9.0 μg/m³, it is considered harmful.
