The Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued a detailed written order on petitions seeking urgent action to control smog in Lahore. The order follows previous hearings on environmental degradation and air pollution in the provincial capital.
The court emphasized that vehicular emissions are a major contributor to smog. The LHC directed the Environment Department to take strict action against vehicles causing pollution. Enforcement must include government buses, including those operated by police and educational institutions, with no exemptions allowed.
Construction Sites Under LHC Scrutiny
The LHC also addressed ongoing construction in housing societies. The court noted that dust and pollution from construction sites are worsening Lahore’s air quality. Authorities were instructed to ensure full compliance with environmental SOPs.
The LHC further ordered the submission of reports on the restoration of parks managed by the Parks and Horticulture Authority. Officials are required to provide updates on tree planting and other green restoration efforts. These measures aim to improve Lahore’s air quality over the long term.
Nasir Bagh Protection
The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) submitted a report on Nasir Bagh. The LHC noted that a three-member committee has been formed to consult stakeholders involved in the project. The committee will present recommendations on protecting Nasir Bagh at the next hearing. The court highlighted that safeguarding green spaces is crucial for long-term smog mitigation.
Justice Shahid Karim, who has consistently overseen smog-related cases, issued the written order. The matter will be revisited after the concerned authorities submit the required reports.
The LHC stressed that immediate and effective enforcement is essential to reduce smog. The court also reinforced the importance of maintaining green spaces and following environmental SOPs at construction sites.
Authorities and the public are urged to cooperate with LHC directives. Prompt action on vehicular emissions, park restoration, and construction compliance is expected to make a tangible impact on Lahore’s air quality.
In other related news also read LHC Judges Face Performance Evaluation By Judicial Commission
The LHC continues to monitor the situation closely, signaling the court’s commitment to long-term environmental protection and public health in the city.
