LHC Orders Action Against All Smog-Causing Vehicles

The Lahore High Court has issued a detailed written order on petitions seeking urgent measures to control smog in the city. The court emphasized that smog poses serious health risks and requires immediate action. It directed the environment department to strictly enforce rules against vehicles causing smog. Importantly, the order stated that government buses, including those of police and educational institutions, must also comply. No exemptions will be allowed, ensuring uniform enforcement across the city.

The court also highlighted ongoing construction sites in housing societies as major contributors to dust and air pollution. It instructed authorities to ensure that environmental standard operating procedures (SOPs) are strictly followed at all sites. The court warned that ignoring these rules will worsen Lahore’s air quality. Authorities must report progress on construction compliance at the next hearing. This step aims to reduce pollution from both vehicles and construction activities.

Additionally, the court focused on the restoration of green areas managed by the Parks and Horticulture Authority. Reports must include the status of park restoration and tree replanting efforts. The court stressed that green spaces are crucial for improving air quality and reducing smog. Officials are expected to present detailed updates at the next hearing. This approach highlights the connection between greenery and long-term environmental health in Lahore.

The Lahore Development Authority submitted a report about Nasir Bagh, a key public green space. The court noted that LDA formed a three-member committee to review the Nasir Bagh project. The committee will consult stakeholders and submit recommendations for the protection and future of the park. Safeguarding green areas like Nasir Bagh is central to the court’s long-term smog mitigation strategy.

Justice Shahid Karim, who has been overseeing smog-related cases, issued the written order. The matter will return to court after the concerned authorities submit their required reports. The court’s directives aim to hold both public and private bodies accountable for pollution. By combining strict vehicle enforcement, construction compliance, and green restoration, Lahore hopes to see tangible improvements in air quality.

Read more : NDMA warns of dense smog across multiple Pakistan regions

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning about rising smog in several parts of Pakistan. Authorities said the smog could affect traffic flow and visibility. Cities expected to experience significant smog include Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sialkot, Gujranwala, and Sheikhupura. Residents are advised to stay alert and take precautionary measures during periods of low visibility.

In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, fog is expected to intensify, along with several areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Meanwhile, upper regions of Sindh may also experience sharply reduced visibility. Authorities said that night and early morning hours will be particularly affected until December 20. Drivers are warned that low visibility increases the risk of road accidents.