KARACHI: The Sindh government has imposed a complete ban on tyre burning and the operation of pyrolysis plants across the province in a major step toward curbing air and environmental pollution. The decision was taken during a provincial cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister of Sindh.
Sindh Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development, Zubair Ahmed Channa, confirmed the development, stating that according to the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), emissions and toxic chemicals released from tyre burning and unregulated pyrolysis plants are severely contaminating air, soil, and water, leading to a rise in respiratory, cardiac, and neurological diseases among citizens.
“Hazardous practices like tyre pyrolysis have pushed Karachi’s air pollution to alarming levels,” said Mr. Channa. “To protect public health and ensure environmental safety, the Sindh government has decided to immediately shut down all such plants operating in the province.”
He further revealed that the government has framed new regulations titled the “Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (Prohibition of Substandard Fuels/Tyres) Rules, 2025,” which prohibit the use, production, and sale of substandard fuels, tyre oil, and unsafe energy materials. Under the new rules, all plants will be required to obtain proper licenses, install environmental control systems, and adhere to strict emission limits. Any violation will result in seizure, fines, and closure of operations.
Mr. Channa emphasized that under the Sindh Environmental Protection Act, 2014, the government is fully empowered to take such measures, calling it a significant step toward sustainable development, cleaner air, and a safer environment for the people of Sindh.
