The Lahore High Court has ordered that no new development project should be approved if it involves cutting down trees. Justice Shahid Karim, while hearing petitions related to environmental pollution and smog control, made it clear that protecting trees is not optional—it is a necessity for the survival of future generations.
During the court session, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) presented its Green Buildings Policy, which encourages eco-friendly construction. The judge appreciated the idea but raised concerns about ongoing and past practices. He questioned whether these policies were being implemented in real terms, especially in already constructed buildings.
Justice Shahid Karim expressed serious anger over a statement from the Director General of Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA), who had mentioned the need to cut trees for the Yellow Line Train project. The judge warned that if any trees are cut without court approval, contempt of court notices will be issued. “You may go ahead with your projects,” he said, “but not at the cost of our environment.”
The court stressed the urgent need to respond to climate change. Justice Karim said, “Western countries have the resources to survive climate change; we don’t. Please show mercy on the coming generations and plant trees.” He added that tree plantation should not be a choice, but a duty for everyone—especially public authorities.
In addition, the court has demanded a report from the Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) regarding the proposal to make major roads one-way. This step is aimed at reducing traffic congestion and air pollution in Lahore, which has become one of the most polluted cities in the world in recent years.