LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) has directed all relevant departments to submit a detailed progress report by November 12 on measures to control smog in the city. Justice Shahid Karim issued the order while hearing multiple petitions concerning air pollution and smog prevention.
During the hearing, lawyers representing government departments appeared before the court. A member of the environmental commission informed the court that heavy traffic after 11 pm worsens smog conditions in Lahore. Justice Karim emphasized the need for strict enforcement to tackle pollution effectively.
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The DIG Motorway Police said the police had supported an earlier smog-control pilot project and were ready to assist again. The court appreciated their cooperation but stressed that vehicle inspections must be carried out rigorously to improve air quality.
The court also questioned the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) about restaurants and barbecue setups operating in public parks. The PHA assured that inspections would be conducted and a response submitted by the next day. Justice Karim also condemned tree cutting for commercial purposes. He demanded a report from the Cantonment Board regarding trees removed outside a private bakery.
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Justice Karim stressed that smog control requires concrete, coordinated actions, including traffic management, vehicle inspections, park preservation, and night-time traffic regulation. All departments have been ordered to submit compliance reports by November 12.