Green Sticker Policy
Air pollution remains one of the most serious environmental challenges in Punjab, especially during the smog season. To address this growing crisis, the Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented the Green Sticker Policy 2025 — a bold step to reduce vehicular emissions and improve air quality across the province.
Starting from September 1, 2025, a province-wide enforcement drive has been launched. Under this new law, only vehicles with valid green stickers are allowed to operate on Punjab’s roads, particularly in major cities like Lahore.
What Is the Green Sticker Policy 2025?
The Green Sticker Policy 2025 requires all petrol and diesel vehicles to undergo an official emission test conducted by the Punjab EPA. Vehicles that pass the test are issued a green sticker, confirming they meet environmental safety standards.
The initiative is particularly important during the smog season between November and December, when pollution levels in cities like Lahore reach dangerous levels. This policy ensures that only low-emission vehicles are on the roads during these months.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Green Sticker Policy 2025 |
| Managing Authority | Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) |
| Enforcement Start Date | 1 September 2025 |
| Deadline for Compliance | 31 August 2025 |
| Eligible Vehicles | All petrol and diesel vehicles that pass emission tests |
| Inspection Includes | Engine, silencer, and catalytic converter check |
Why Is the Green Sticker Mandatory?
The green sticker is more than just a requirement — it’s a public health initiative. It helps:
- Identify and control high-emission vehicles
- Maintain road safety during the smog season
- Reduce respiratory and heart-related diseases
- Align Punjab’s transportation system with international environmental standards
After August 31, 2025, vehicles without a green sticker are not allowed to enter or operate in major cities like Lahore.
Penalties for Vehicles Without a Green Sticker
The Punjab government has begun a strict crackdown on vehicles violating the policy:
- First-Time Offenders: Drivers of vehicles manufactured between 2010 and 2015 will receive warning slips or e-challans if caught without a sticker.
- Repeat Offenders: Heavy fines and legal action will follow for repeated violations. Vehicles may also be impounded for continuous non-compliance.
- Extended Enforcement: The crackdown is expanding to rural areas to ensure province-wide compliance.
How the Vehicle Emission Test Works
To get your Green Sticker, follow these steps:
- Visit the nearest Environment Department inspection center.
- Present your vehicle for testing.
- Officials will check the engine condition, silencer smoke levels, and catalytic converter.
- If your vehicle meets standards, you’ll receive a sticker immediately.
So far, over 350,000 vehicles in Punjab have successfully passed emission tests and received their green stickers. The government has announced that sticker fees will be revealed soon, and more testing centers will be established for public convenience.
Why Lahore Needs the Green Sticker Policy the Most
Lahore consistently ranks among the most polluted cities in the world. During winter, thick smog disrupts daily life, closes schools and businesses, and causes severe health issues such as asthma and eye irritation.
By restricting road access to only green-stickered vehicles, the Punjab government aims to significantly reduce smog levels and improve air quality across the city.
While some vehicle owners view the policy as restrictive, it offers major long-term advantages:
- Cleaner air and a healthier environment
- Reduction in pollution-related diseases
- Encouragement of regular vehicle maintenance
- Transparent monitoring through digital and on-road systems
- Improved international environmental image for Pakistan
Expert Opinions
Environmental experts have praised the Green Sticker initiative as a necessary and timely measure. They emphasize that unchecked vehicle emissions are one of the primary causes of Punjab’s air pollution crisis. Without such policies, the province risks long-term environmental and health damage.
Economists also note potential economic benefits, such as job creation in emission-testing centers and automobile workshops, fostering an eco-friendly transport industry in Pakistan.
Future Plans Under the Green Sticker Policy
The Punjab government plans to make the program permanent and more advanced by:
- Integrating green stickers with the digital vehicle registration system
- Launching online application and verification portals
- Making the sticker mandatory for all vehicles year-round
- Introducing automated emission checks through smart traffic systems
These measures will make emission control a continuous and technology-driven part of Punjab’s transport network.
FAQs – Green Sticker Policy 2025
What was the deadline for getting the Green Sticker?
The official deadline was 31 August 2025, with enforcement beginning from 1 September 2025.
Which vehicles require a Green Sticker?
All petrol and diesel vehicles — particularly those entering Lahore and other major cities — must have a valid green sticker.
What happens if I drive without a sticker?
First, you may receive a warning or e-challan. Continued violations lead to heavy fines, legal action, or vehicle impoundment.
Where can I get the emission test done?
You can visit any designated Environment Department or Punjab EPA inspection center across the province.
How much does the sticker cost?
The official fee will be announced soon. In some areas, the testing is currently being offered free of charge for a limited time.
Conclusion
The Green Sticker Policy 2025 marks a major milestone in Punjab’s mission to reduce air pollution and promote cleaner transport. The message is clear: protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.
Vehicle owners should act immediately — get your emissions tested, obtain your green sticker, and contribute to cleaner air and a healthier future for all.
