Sindh to spend Rs 200m to upgrade environmental labs in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur

ISLAMABAD, Dec 9 (APP): The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) has revised the PC-I for the expansion and strengthening of environmental laboratories in Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur at an estimated cost of Rs 200 million.
According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the initiative aims to meet the growing requirements for environmental monitoring and testing at the regional and divisional levels.
The project forms part of the Sindh government’s broader strategy to combat air pollution, enhance environmental sustainability, and safeguard natural resources. The upgraded laboratories will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to monitor air quality, analyse hazardous emissions, and conduct comprehensive environmental testing across multiple sectors.
The revision of the PC-I follows the Sindh cabinet’s approval of SEPA’s proposal to ban the use of substandard fuels and materials that contribute to toxic emissions in the province. This includes restrictions on the use of plastic, rubber, latex, and other hazardous substances in line with national environmental protection goals.
In parallel, the Sindh government has launched multiple initiatives to curb air pollution, including a large-scale tree plantation drive, the generation of over 2,200 megawatts of renewable energy, and the installation of air emission control systems in various parts of the province. The government is also working to solarise public buildings and improve infrastructure for flood-affected communities.
Moreover, the government has implemented a complete ban on plastic carrier bags and is encouraging industries to adopt greener practices. These include the promotion of electric vehicle services for public transport in Karachi and large-scale mangrove restoration projects.
The restoration of mangrove forests over more than 2,800 hectares in the Indus Delta is a major initiative aimed at protecting coastal ecosystems, preventing soil erosion, and reducing the impact of natural disasters.
Through these measures, SEPA aims to ensure that Sindh’s environmental monitoring infrastructure keeps pace with rapid urbanisation while mitigating the harmful effects of industrial pollution and environmental degradation.
These projects are expected not only to improve air quality and preserve biodiversity but also to advance long-term sustainability goals, positioning Sindh as a model for other provinces in addressing climate challenges and promoting eco-friendly development.