While riding in an automobile, I did read the message at a glance, conveyed through a banner hanging on the round about of Hassan Square the other day. I thought it is an appropriate time to express my feelings, though I am not an expert, but as a senior citizen of this country.
I am exercising my right to speak out, plus I have a moral obligation on my part as well, to pinpoint and to share my ideas with fellow citizens.
I am ignorant of the fact whether or not this matter has ever been debated in public earlier or has already been brought up for consideration by the concerned authorities.
"Pollution" or "Aaloodgi in Fiza" is a very sensitive and important issue faced by every country particularly, the developing countries. In Pakistan, mainly the big cities, are living examples of such victimisation.
With the passage of time we are witnessing its very ugly form.
Smoke is the main source of 'Aaloodgi in Fiza'. Out of the total number of vehicles running on Karachi roads roughly 60-70 percent, particularly those using diesel, are releasing smoke and causing noise. These vehicles are in operation without any hesitation and fear.
There are no checks, with the result that it gives them the impression the law does not bind them.
"Smoke" is generated through a mechanism of automobile engines and from the factories. It results in diseases of different forms, directly affecting our skin, mainly the throat, lungs.
Preventive measures may be in hundreds, with "smog detection" one of them that may be effective and helpful in reducing smoke/noise. This system has been in force in many countries. It does not allow any vehicle to run on the roads until and unless such a vehicle is cleared by a recognised agency possesses a certificate to this effect.
Through this system a portion of the engine has to go for a computerised check-up, the results can be had in seconds by a computer-generated report/printout.
Basically, this system exempts the newer automobiles, manufactured within two-three years, otherwise the fault is detected normally in older vehicles. The fault that causes smoke/noise in the engines has to be removed before it can be passed for the issuance of such a certificate allowing the vehicle to be on the road. A nominal fee is charged for this service.
While getting the vehicle smog-checked one has to have the registration documents for the vehicle.
On the other hand, this smog certificate is also needed at the time of registration or renewal of the vehicle as well. Moreover, this system is normally monitored by the vehicle registration authorities, in view of the precautions for any wrong doings.
This whole scenario explains the situation that we are basically obligated to some useful system and this article is an endeavour to fight for and achieve fruitful results.
Moreover, implementation of this kind of system obviously will be an expensive and difficult task no doubt, but it can prove to be a device that would assist to leading the nation towards a so-called "safety zone." I sincerely hope that the present administration would consider/promote such a proposal for the safety of the general public.