The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday directed Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi to take effective measures for improving traffic flow in the city and intensify action against smoke-emitting vehicles.
Justice Shahid Karim issued the directions while hearing petitions filed related to smog prevention.
During the proceedings the CTO appeared before the court and submitted a report on measures being taken by the traffic police.
The CTO informed the court that action against smoke-emitting vehicles was underway in compliance with court orders. He said special teams had been constituted to take strict action against sand trolleys, while awareness campaigns were also being conducted to educate citizens on traffic and environmental issues.
He further stated that around 50,000 vehicles had been fined so far, while more than 9,000 vehicles had been impounded for various traffic violations.
The court was also informed that the department was purchasing electric vehicles to help reduce the carbon footprint and introducing amendments to make traffic penalties more effective.
Justice Shahid Karim observed that the primary responsibility for action against smoke-emitting vehicles lies with the Environment Department, but stressed the need for continuous coordination between the traffic police and environmental authorities.
The judge remarked that visible action against polluting vehicles remained insufficient and directed traffic wardens to play a more active role in the field.
The court also expressed concern over increasing one-way violations and illegal turns, particularly on Canal Road, where such violations frequently result in accidents.
Addressing the CTO, Justice Shahid Karim remarked, “Your job is fieldwork. You should personally inspect traffic conditions at different times without protocol.”
The judge further observed that authorities should focus more on effective traffic management instead of relying solely on fines, adding that despite flaws in the city’s road infrastructure, traffic police could still make a positive difference through improved performance and enforcement.