Smog Control, Air Quality and Environmental Protection Discussed in CDA–ADB Meeting

Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, met a delegation of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at CDA Headquarters on Monday to review plans for smog mitigation, environmental protection, and air quality improvement in Islamabad. The delegation included Senior Financial Sector Economist Andrew McCartney and ADB’s urban team.

Randhawa said reducing smog and air pollution remains a top priority, and multiple eco-friendly projects and policy measures are already underway. He noted that CDA has adopted the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NECA) regulations in its Electric Vehicle (EV) policy and is taking steps to promote EVs and charging stations across the city.

He added that 160 electric feeder buses have been introduced using CDA’s own resources, while vehicle carbon-emission testing is being carried out to curb pollution in the transport sector. More air-quality monitoring stations are also being planned for reliable AQI reporting.

The Chairman highlighted plans for a modern solid waste management system, including a scientific landfill site, to address pollution caused by improper garbage disposal. He also said several environment-friendly initiatives are being assessed to enable Islamabad to acquire carbon credits, with ADB’s technical support expected to assist in green financing.

The ADB delegation said the Bank would complete its consultations and provide technical assistance for ongoing projects. They noted that ADB is already supporting the development of Islamabad’s first Transport Master Plan and the Inter-City Bus Terminals project.

Read More: Pakistan Reaffirms Strong Ties with UAE on Its National Day: PM Shehbaz

Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation for smog reduction, clean air efforts, and environmental sustainability.

Randhawa said these measures aim to ensure clean air and a healthy quality of life for citizens. He added that stronger CDA–ADB partnership will help raise Islamabad’s environmental standards and turn the capital into a model of sustainable development for Pakistan.