The Punjab government has officially ended the facility of free vehicle emission testing. Now, owners must pay a fixed fee based on the type and capacity of their vehicles. The decision aims to reduce rising air pollution, enforce stricter monitoring, and ensure cleaner air for citizens. Officials said the move aligns with global standards of emission control policies.
Notification Issued by the Environment Protection Department
According to a notification by the Environment Protection Department, motorcycles, rickshaws, and cars will all face different fees during vehicle emission tests. The new charges are designed to encourage compliance with environmental rules. While motorcycle riders will pay a small fee, luxury and high-capacity vehicles will pay higher fees. This step makes monitoring stricter and increases accountability for vehicle owners.
Detailed Fee Structure for Vehicles
The government has clearly defined fees depending on the vehicle category. Motorcycles will be charged Rs. 100, while rickshaw owners will pay Rs. 300. Car owners will pay from Rs. 500 up to Rs. 2,000 depending on engine size. This tiered structure ensures fairness, with those owning bigger, high-emission vehicles contributing more than smaller vehicles that pollute less.
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Vehicle Emission Testing Fee Table
| Vehicle Type | Fee (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Motorcycles | 100 |
| Rickshaws | 300 |
| Cars up to 1000cc | 500 |
| Cars up to 1500cc | 800 |
| Cars up to 2500cc | 1000 |
| Cars up to 4500cc | 1500 |
| Above 4500cc capacity | 2000 |
Fee Deposit Process Clarified
The department has also made the payment process very clear. All fees must be deposited directly into the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) account at the time of testing. This system will reduce the chances of misuse and ensure proper collection of funds. Officials added that the revenue will be used to improve monitoring systems and strengthen the fight against pollution.
A Step Toward Stricter Regulations
Experts believe this move marks a big shift from free services to structured regulations in Punjab. It also signals the government’s determination to curb pollution caused by unchecked vehicle emissions. While some vehicle owners may find the new charges burdensome, environmentalists argue that the small fees are a reasonable price to pay for cleaner air and a healthier future.