The Lahore High Court on Thursday extended its stay order on the Sheranwala Gate and Taxali Gate projects until further orders while expressing dissatisfaction over the gazette notification issued for rules framed by the Parks and Horticulture Authority during the hearing of the smog mitigation case.
The court also expressed strong concern over tree cutting along Raiwind Canal and observed that changes should be made in the forest conservation department.
Justice Shahid Karim heard the petitions filed by Haroon Farooq and other applicants against ineffective measures to control smog.
During the hearing, the court remarked that international reports continue to place Pakistan among the world’s most polluted countries, adding that traffic remains a major contributor to environmental pollution. The court noted that congestion caused by public events leads to prolonged traffic jams, undermining months of efforts aimed at controlling smog.
The court further observed that the Punjab government must adopt stronger measures to control rising PM2.5 levels and emphasized that preserving Lahore’s gardens and green spaces is essential for improving the city’s environment.
At this stage, Environmental Commission member Kamal Haider informed the court that PHA rules had been finalized and notified through a gazette notification. However, the court questioned whether the draft had been shared earlier with the court or the Environmental Commission.
Kamal Haider told the court that the draft had only recently been reviewed and that additional provisions could still be incorporated, requesting more time for reassessment.
The court directed the Environmental Commission and PHA to examine recommendations submitted by civil society and submit a report containing workable proposals.
Lawyers representing the Punjab government, the Environmental Commission, Lahore Development Authority and PHA appeared before the court. Deputy Director Environment Ali Ejaz and Environmental Commission Secretary Farhan Saeed were also present.
The hearing was adjourned until April 9.