LHC seeks tougher coordinated action against smog-causing violations

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Friday asked the authorities to put in place a stricter and better coordinated system to deal with repeat traffic and environmental violations that are adding to smog, while observing that serious breaches often avoid scrutiny and motorcyclists are frequently singled out during enforcement campaigns.

Justice Shahid Karim made the observations while hearing a set of petitions on anti-smog measures filed by Haroon Farooq and others.

During the hearing, the judge said the authorities should work with the Environment Department to develop an effective mechanism so that repeat offenders responsible for worsening pollution are dealt with firmly.

The court noted that major traffic violations were often not being checked, while traffic wardens were commonly seen stopping motorcyclists by the roadside. "I personally drive and monitor traffic conditions myself," Justice Karim told the court.

The Chief Traffic Officer informed the court that a week-long campaign against smog-related violations was in progress. He said action had been taken against sand-laden trolleys and other violators under amended traffic laws, under which fines had recently been raised.

However, the court said higher penalties by themselves would not resolve the issue. "Higher fines may be one step towards traffic control, but they are not a complete solution," Justice Karim observed.

The court further observed that the fast-growing number of vehicles in Lahore had become a major factor behind smog and stressed the need for preventive steps before winter conditions further worsen pollution.

Questions over electric scooters and field monitoring

Addressing the Environment Department's counsel, the judge asked where the electric scooters previously purchased by the department were, questioning whether they were parked at officers' homes because they were not visible on the roads.

Justice Karim said the practical use of electric scooters could support environmental protection efforts. He also advised officials to occasionally move without official protocol so they could better understand conditions on the ground, observing that many civic and traffic problems become apparent only through direct monitoring.

In response, the CTO told the court that he performed nearly 14 hours of duty every day and spent around 10 hours on the roads. Justice Karim appreciated the officer's positive and capable approach but at the same time criticised Lahore's poor road infrastructure and irregular patchwork practices.

The court also pointed to what it described as an unnecessary road cut near Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre. This prompted laughter in the courtroom when the judge remarked, "We can at least mention Shaukat Khanum's name, can't we?"

At the end of the hearing, the Lahore High Court directed the CTO to submit a detailed report and adjourned proceedings until next week.