Govt Likely to Abolish Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency

A confidential draft prepared by the Rightsizing Committee of the federal government has proposed the dissolution of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), citing consistent operational failures, limited capacity, and inefficient bureaucratic functioning, sources told ProPakistani. The plan recommends transferring core environmental regulatory functions directly to the Ministry of Climate Change, with the agency set to be officially dissolved by November 30, 2025. The draft presents a critical assessment of Pak-EPA’s effectiveness, arguing that the agency’s current mandate far exceeds its operational scope and influence. It describes the institution as a “box-ticking exercise” with minimal impact on environmental enforcement, particularly after environmental regulation was devolved to the provinces in 2010. Islamabad is highlighted as a prime example of regulatory breakdown, with unregulated garbage burning, continued use of plastic bags, and toxic vehicular emissions cited as key indicators of institutional failure. According to the proposed plan, only three to four qualified environmental experts would be retained and absorbed into the Ministry of Climate Change. The remaining staff would either be dismissed or transferred to the federal surplus pool. The Ministry will assume direct environmental oversight in the Islamabad Capital Territory, while provincial governments will be tasked with implementation in their respective regions. The Ministry’s role would be limited to central coordination and federal-level monitoring. This proposal aligns with the federal government’s broader “rightsizing” strategy, driven by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s High-Powered Downsizing Committee. The initiative aims to streamline public sector institutions and reduce financial burdens. As part of this process, more than 65 federal bodies have been shortlisted for closure or consolidation, and the structure of all 43 federal ministries is under review. Environmental experts have expressed strong reservations about the potential dissolution of Pak-EPA. While the Ministry may retain a coordinating role, experts argue that dismantling a dedicated federal regulatory body could weaken environmental governance, particularly in Islamabad, where air and water pollution challenges are intensifying. The draft follows a wave of structural reforms affecting ministries such as Science and Technology, Health, and Industries. Final decisions are expected following inter-ministerial consultations and possible cabinet-level deliberations.