Punjab government extends vehicle emission testing deadline to December 31

The Punjab government in Pakistan is enforcing vehicle emission testing to combat severe smog in the region, particularly in Lahore, where air quality has recently reached some of the world's worst levels.

The provincial transport department now operates the Private Vehicle Inspection and Certification System (PVICS) to verify that vehicles meet environmental and mechanical standards. This move follows a period where the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) conducted tests on approximately 300,000 vehicles.

Authorities are using these tests to reduce fine particulate matter, which has recently reached levels eight times higher than World Health Organisation guidelines in Lahore. Motorists must visit authorized testing centers to receive a certificate valid for one year. Owners of newer vehicles are exempt from testing based on their engine capacity and age: cars with 1,000cc engines are exempt for five years, those between 1,001cc and 2,000cc for six years, and those above 2,000cc for seven years.

Other owners pay fees ranging from Rs500 to Rs2,000 depending on their engine size. The testing process involves connecting the vehicle to equipment that measures exhaust emissions, braking, and noise levels. Results are shared digitally with the EPA and the Punjab Transport Authority. If a vehicle fails, the owner must perform repairs before returning for a reassessment at half the original fee. The government extended the compliance deadline to December 31, after which non-compliant vehicles may face fines.