EMA Declares War on Polluting Cars: Harare Drivers Face Fines for Smoky Exhausts
Motorists in Harare are being urged to ensure their vehicles are in top condition as the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) intensifies efforts to curb harmful emissions. Vehicle owners whose exhausts emit excessive smoke now face fines as part of a drive to reduce pollution and protect public health.
EMA Declares War on Polluting Cars
EMA has encouraged drivers to prioritise regular vehicle servicing to minimize harmful pollutants that threaten both public health and the environment. These pollutants, according to EMA, contribute significantly to respiratory illnesses and accelerate climate change.
Leon Mutungamiri, EMA’s Harare provincial manager, detailed the dangers posed by vehicle emissions.
“Vehicle emissions are a significant contributor to air pollution, which has severe consequences for human health, including respiratory problems and other ailments,” part of the statement reads.
Mutungamiri identified key pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, sulphur dioxide, particulate matter, dust, smoke, and lead compounds as culprits that harm humans and exacerbate environmental degradation.
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Advanced Monitoring Technology
To enforce emission standards, EMA is deploying opacimeters—state-of-the-art devices that measure the density of smoke in exhaust gases by analyzing light absorption and scattering. The opacimeters will be used primarily at roadblocks. Vehicles meeting the emission standards will pass through without issue, while those exceeding limits will face penalties.
“When we test the level of vehicle emissions, those found exceeding the limit will be issued a fine and advised to service their vehicle,” he explained.
Harare Drivers Face US$30 Fines for Smoky Exhausts
EMA is also teaming up with law enforcement to tackle vehicles producing excessive smoke. The initiative includes tracking offending vehicles using registration numbers via the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR). Vehicle owners will be contacted to arrange fine payments.
“For example, if we see a car emitting smoke, we will take the registration number. With the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR), we can contact the owner to arrange payment of the fine,” he added.
Under the Environmental Management Act, motorists caught driving vehicles that emit heavy smoke will be fined US$30.
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