PESHAWAR: An oil terminal operating in Nowshera has been declared a serious environmental hazard after authorities took notice of complaints about pollution in the area.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took action after a complaint was filed by Tehsil Council Pabbi member Taimur Kamal.The agency subsequently issued notices to the Pakistan State Oil (PSO) oil terminal and the Shell oil terminal located in Nowshera.
The action was initiated after environmental violations were reported during an inspection conducted on November 7, 2025, the official letter stated.Based on the findings, proceedings were started against the PSO oil terminal in Pabbi otown of the Nowshera district over environmental pollution concerns.
The EPA summoned Manager In-charge Arbab Ishaq of the PSO oil terminal and Shell depot In-charge Osama Yousaf to appear for a hearing scheduled for March 17.The notices were issued under Section 17 of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Environmental Protection Act 2014, according to the EPA.
Officials stated that violations of environmental laws could result in fines ranging from Rs50,000 to Rs70 million. In case of continued violations, an additional daily fine of up to Rs100,000 may also be imposed.
The agency alleged that the Shell depot was illegally using a public road for oil supply operations, which violated environmental and operational regulations.The EPA warned that ex-parte proceedings will be initiated if the officials concerned fail to appear on the scheduled date.
