Vehicle emission testing centres opened islandwide

DriveGreen, Sri Lanka’s first ever vehicle emission testing program got under way when CleanCo Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., launched its 16 fixed testing centres across the island.

The DriveGreen vehicle emission testing program forms one important link in the chain of events in the State initiative to reduce air pollution which happens through noxious, harmful vehicle exhaust fumes and create a healthier environment for future generations.

The ever-increasing level of pollutants in the air, primarily as a result of noxious vehicular exhaust fumes is a problem that affects the health and well-being of all Sri Lankans. Although there are laws in Sri Lanka to prevent such environmental abuse, the problem of not being able to implement the law has made it progressively worse.

Meanwhile, the number of vehicles keeps increasing. Of the 2.4 million vehicles, serviceable (roadworthy) vehicles on the streets top 1.9 million, making a solution to this issue urgent and essential.

Comprehending the enormous risks facing the nation, the government acted by directing the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to conduct a study which resulted in the setting up of DriveGreen vehicle emission testing centres.

All serviceable vehicles are now required to obtain a ‘Green Certificate’ indicating the level of harmful emissions. It is a compulsory prerequisite when renewing the revenue licence of a registered vehicle.

The company has set up 16 fixed testing centres to support the State’s program and intend to make it compulsory for vehicle owners to obtain the Vehicle Emission Test (VET) certificate to renew annual revenue licences.

CleanCo has made a substantial investment to import and install high quality, specialised testing equipment for fixed and mobile testing stations from Environment Systems Products USA (ESP, USA).

In October 2003, the Government, through the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) called for proposals for the Sri Lanka Vehicle Emissions Test (SLVET) program. The program identifies vehicles, which exceed applicable emission standards, and places them through a repair and certification process.