Smog is an enemy that is given less importance than it is. The annual vehicle inspection carried out in Ecuador is supposed to be an effective tool against the problem, but reports like the one released by the Ministry of Environment in Quito show the weakness of controls.

The document identifies seven sectors of the capital city with the highest pollution index, due to the daily traffic of 550,000 vehicles. These are the hypercenter, La Ofelia, Carapungo, Cumbayá, San Rafael, Quitumbe and El Recreo.

Effective vehicle control contributes to air quality and reduces the risk of respiratory diseases. An increase in allergies, respiratory tract irritation, and even skin irritation can come from exposure to smog.

The technical inspection of the vehicle is in the hands of the Metropolitan Transit Agency. Valeria Díaz, a researcher at the Ministry of the Environment, believes that there is an excess of vehicles that have not passed the inspection process for polluting gases. In Quito, there are 64 operators with 3,500 public transport units, but more than 220 have not been audited since January.

In the capital and other cities, it is necessary to pay attention to the control of pollution from vehicles. There can be no flexibility and less room for ‘dubious processes’ when the health of Ecuadorians is involved. A timely and effective inspection prevents accidents and protects air quality because it involves more than one mechanical consideration.

Municipalities, transport unions and even the Ministry of Health must act in a coordinated manner in order to meet the standards that guarantee air quality. It is a timely contribution from citizens who condemn vehicles that at first glance fill the roads with smog. And on the part of the authorities, it is essential to establish agile channels for complaints, keep a reserve and react agilely and efficiently. Also, do not omit operations for those who did not comply with the examination. (OR)