LHC demands detailed reports on measures to control smog

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ordered all relevant departments to submit comprehensive reports on the implementation of anti-smog measures by November 12. The directive was issued by Justice Shahid Karim during a hearing on several petitions related to smog prevention and environmental protection.

Representatives from various government departments attended the proceedings, while a member of the Judicial Water and Environmental Commission presented a report outlining that heavy traffic in Lahore increases after 11 p.m., worsening the city's smog conditions. The DIG Motorway Police assured the court of continued support for previous pilot projects and current efforts.

Despite the cooperation, Justice Karim emphasized that smog conditions would not improve unless effective vehicle inspections were carried out. He also requested a detailed report from the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) regarding the commercialization of public parks, specifically those hosting restaurants and barbecue facilities. He questioned the extent of park areas being utilized for commercial purposes and warned that further destruction of green spaces for revenue generation would not be tolerated.

"If the goal is merely profit, we might as well cut down all the trees in Lahore,” Justice Karim stated firmly. He stressed the need for strict measures to tackle smog, including enhanced traffic control, rigorous vehicle inspections, preservation of green spaces, and regulation of nighttime traffic.

The court expects all concerned departments to submit their reports on anti-smog measures by the next hearing on November 12.