Justice Shahid Karim of the Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued a written order outlining strict measures to combat smog, directing authorities to intensify inspections of all heavy vehicles, including smoke-emitting police transport. The court has instructed the Environment Department to submit a comprehensive report on the fitness of these vehicles.
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The order further mandates that the report include updates on the installation and functioning of water treatment plants in sugar mills. The court sought clarification on whether six sugar mills have completed the required installations. Additionally, WASA has been told to issue water-charge notices in accordance with relevant regulations.
Addressing concerns over urban development, the court ordered that no trees be cut during ongoing construction at Nasir Bagh. It noted that 123 trees have been transplanted from the site, and the PHA has assured the court that all transplanted trees are safe and receiving proper care. Each tree has been tagged, and the court directed the PHA to devise a comprehensive policy for future tree relocations.
The Judicial Member of the Water Commission informed the bench that a meeting had been held at the CTO office to devise a detailed traffic management plan. The CTO will coordinate with the Lahore Transport Company to develop a strategy aimed at reducing emissions and congestion.
The court has requested a detailed report from the EPA’s counsel and adjourned further proceedings until December 12.
