LAHORE:
The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday expressed grave displeasure over the Punjab government’s inadequate measures to combat smog, warning that the worsening air quality in Lahore had reached alarming levels.
Justice Shahid Karim, while hearing multiple petitions related to smog control, pollution reduction and groundwater protection, criticized the authorities for failing to enforce existing restrictions and implement effective policies.
The court questioned why restaurant operating hours and other administrative restrictions, previously imposed to reduce emissions, were not being enforced.
Justice Karim summoned the deputy commissioner of Lahore to appear personally on Tuesday to explain the inaction.
It also ordered strict action against smoke-emitting vehicles, directing the Environmental Protection Department and traffic police to ensure immediate compliance.
Justice Karim observed that the ongoing court proceedings were not intended to attack the government but to help it meet its environmental obligations.
“About 70% of the pollution in Lahore comes from transport emissions,” he said, urging authorities to correct systemic failures rather than assign blame.
