LHC gives authorities until May 5 in petition over removal of large billboards

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has allowed federal and provincial authorities time until May 5 to file their replies in a petition seeking the removal of large billboards and signboards.

Justice Shujaat Ali Khan heard the matter, which was brought before the court by the Judicial Activism Panel.

During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel told the court that large billboards and signboards had still not been taken down despite a ruling by the Supreme Court. The counsel argued that the issue was not limited to Lahore and that such structures were present across the country.

According to the petitioner, the billboards and signboards pose serious safety concerns. The counsel submitted that these structures could cause major accidents at any time and put citizens’ lives at risk.

Petition seeks implementation of court ruling

The petition centres on the claim that the relevant authorities have not acted in line with the Supreme Court’s decision regarding the removal of oversized advertising structures. The petitioner maintained before the Lahore High Court that the continued presence of these installations in Lahore and other parts of the country remains a matter of public safety.

The court did not issue a final ruling on the petition at this stage and instead granted more time to the federal and provincial governments to submit their responses.

With the matter now adjourned, the authorities are expected to place their position before the court by May 5. The case concerns concerns raised by the petitioner over the presence of large billboards and signboards and the risks they allegedly present to the public.

The hearing before Justice Shujaat Ali Khan focused on the petitioner’s contention that the structures remain in place despite prior judicial directions and that their continued installation could endanger lives if accidents occur.