Environmental Protection Agency in Action: Rawalpindi Environmental Protection Force Raids Illegal Medical Waste Sellers
Environmental Protection Agency in Action: Rawalpindi Environmental Protection Force Raids Illegal Medical Waste Sellers
Rawalpindi: On the directions of Director General Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab, Imran Hamid Sheikh, a raid was conducted by the Environmental Protection Force under the supervision of Deputy Director EPA Rawalpindi, Maria Safeer. Inspector Amanullah led the operation within the jurisdiction of Police Station Civil Lines, at Tahli Mohri, Street No. 8, targeting a parking area where illegal activities were suspected.
During the raid, three individuals were caught red-handed while attempting to sell hazardous medical waste collected from various hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The accused include Rehan (a driver employed by a private cleaning company), Shah Muhammad, and Sardar Hussain, all of whom were involved in the unlawful sale of biohazardous waste.
A First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against the accused at Police Station Civil Lines, and the suspects have been handed over to the police for further investigation.
In light of the incident, the EPA has also decided to issue a formal notice to the private cleaning company involved, holding it accountable for gross negligence and violation of environmental regulations. According to Deputy Director Maria Safeer, the company will be directed to strictly adhere to waste management and hygiene protocols.
The EPA has expressed serious concern over the matter, stating that any negligence or criminal activity affecting public health and environmental safety will not be tolerated. Deputy Director Maria Safeer has instructed all hospitals and waste management companies to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and ensure strict compliance with the law. She emphasized that stern action will be taken against all individuals and organizations involved in such violations.
