To combat the worsening smog and air pollution during peak seasons, the Punjab Environment Protection Department has announced an important new regulation: starting immediately, only vehicles with a green emissions sticker will be allowed on motorways in the province. Vehicles without this sticker will be stopped at designated checkpoints and denied entry.
What Are These Green Stickers?
These stickers serve as proof that your vehicle has passed an emissions test and meets the National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS). The inspections are being conducted on-site at booths strategically placed along major motorway interchanges near Lahore—including Babu Sabu, Thokar, Ravi, and Kala Shah Kaku.
Vehicles that pass the emissions check are awarded a green sticker. Those without this badge of compliance are barred from using the motorway—an assertive move to reduce vehicular pollution during smog season .
Why Now?
Punjab, especially Lahore, faces a recurring smog crisis each winter. Vehicular emissions are a major contributor to airborne pollutants. According to the department, this crackdown aims to directly tackle that problem by restricting high-polluting vehicles from motorway usage.
By reducing heavy-duty exhaust sources, the province hopes to improve air quality and public health—much like earlier tests conducted in Lahore that showed over 80% of cars and bikes complied with emission standards.
Easier Testing, Smoother Flow
To avoid chaos and long waits at inspection points, Punjab plans to increase the number of testing lanes and booths, ensuring a swift, hassle‐free experience for motorists. The tests are designed to be quick and efficient, aiming to minimize disruption to daily commutes.
Smog Season Emphasis
The green-sticker mandate became effective at the start of smog season—when Lahore and surrounding areas traditionally experience the worst air quality. As per official statements, all non‑stickered vehicles will now face restricted motorway access during this critical period.
What You Should Do
If you travel frequently between Lahore and Islamabad (or are based near motorway interchanges), it’s crucial to:
- Locate your nearest emission testing booth.
- Get your vehicle tested and certified before the smog season crackdown intensifies.
- Attach the green sticker to show compliance.
This step not only ensures hassle-free motorway access—it’s also a vital action in the province’s broader effort to improve air quality.
A Step Toward Cleaner Air
This initiative is among several proactive steps by the Punjab government to combat air pollution and prioritize public health by tackling its root causes. While the motorway ban targets higher-speed, high-impact vehicles, similar testing measures are also being rolled out city-wide.
In essence, this isn’t just environmental policy—it’s a lifestyle shift toward cleaner living, accountability, and community responsibility. So next time you hit the motorway, make sure your vehicle has its green sticker. Together, we can take breathing easier!
