The Sindh government has announced a complete ban on tyre burning and the operation of pyrolysis plants across the province, a decisive measure to combat environmental pollution and safeguard public health.
This decision, endorsed by the provincial cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Oct 8, 2025, comes after alarming findings from the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) on the harmful effects of smoke and toxic chemicals released from these sources. The pollution caused by these activities has significantly worsened air, soil, and water quality, contributing to an increase in respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases, especially in Karachi and other urban areas.
Under the newly drafted Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (Prohibition of Use of Substandard Fuel/Tires) Rules, 2025, the use, manufacture, and sale of substandard fuels, including tyre oil, is strictly prohibited.
All fuel-processing and recycling plants must now obtain proper licensing, install emissions control systems, and comply with stringent environmental standards.
Violators face severe penalties including heavy fines, equipment seizure, and permanent shutdown.
The government is enforcing this ban under the Sindh Environmental Protection Act, 2014, and aims to align with global environmental standards such as the Basel Convention and UNEP guidelines.
This major step signals Sindh’s commitment to sustainable development, cleaner air, and better health outcomes for its residents, reinforcing the province’s leadership in environmental protection efforts in Pakistan