The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday directed that no building in the city be constructed without complying with green building standards.
The court also emphasised that no development project involving tree cutting should be approved.
Justice Shahid Karim passed the directives while hearing a set of petitions, filed by Haroon Farooq and others concerning smog control.
During the proceedings, a representative of the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) submitted a report highlighting the inclusion of green building standards in the new building bylaws. The court was informed that a construction certificate from the Pakistan Green Building Council will now be mandatory for all future buildings.
At this, the court remarked that LDA must also enforce these environmental standards on ongoing construction projects and encourage compliance from already constructed buildings.
NESPAK Project Manager Jamshed Janjua briefed the court regarding the Blue Line project along the Lahore Canal.
Addressing the NESPAK officer, the court observed, “The Blue Line project is under review. Canal Road is lined with large, old trees. These must not be removed.”
It clarified that the court was not opposed to development but insisted that all projects must meet environmental standards. “Trees are essential for our environment. Please show mercy to this country and its people; you have children too,” the judge remarked. He also noted that the Supreme Court had already declared the canal a heritage site.
NESPAK’s project manager assured the court that all trees along the canal have been geotagged and none would be cut.
The court further highlighted the issue of persistent traffic jams on service roads, calling it a serious concern. It directed the Chief Traffic Officer and the Environmental Commission to consult on resolving parking-related congestion.
Deputy Attorney General Asad Ali Bajwa presented a booklet outlining the efforts made by the Motorway Police. The judge appreciated their role, noting that motorway officers consistently attend each court hearing and their contribution to the proceedings is commendable.
Also present in court were Assistant Advocate General Hassan Ijaz Cheema, Deputy Director Environment Ali Ijaz, members of the Environmental Commission, and representatives from various departments.