The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a major exemption for motor vehicles from routine emission testing.
All cars and light transport vehicles (LTVs) not older than three years from the date of manufacturing have been excluded from the emission test requirement.
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This decision was issued through an official notification signed by Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, Director General of the EPA Punjab. The exemption applies to vehicles manufactured in 2022 or later and takes effect immediately.
According to the EPA, the move is based on recent data which shows that newer vehicles consistently meet the required emission standards. These vehicles are equipped with modern technology and emission control systems that significantly reduce their impact on air pollution.
The EPA also pointed out that testing such vehicles does not bring meaningful environmental benefits. On the other hand, it puts unnecessary strain on enforcement agencies and causes inconvenience to vehicle owners who are already in compliance.
This exemption follows a previous directive issued in April 2025 and continues the agency’s efforts to streamline environmental regulations. Authorities believe that focusing on older and poorly maintained vehicles will be more effective in controlling vehicular pollution.
The EPA has urged vehicle owners to ensure proper maintenance to keep emissions within permissible limits even if their vehicles are exempted from testing.