Lahore High Court Slams Punjab Government Over Smog

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday expressed serious concern over the Punjab government’s failure to control smog. Justice Shahid Karim highlighted the rising air pollution and noted noncompliance with restaurant working hours contributing to the problem. The bench stressed that measures taken so far have been insufficient to protect citizens’ health and the city’s environment .

The court summoned DC Lahore Syed Musa Raza in his personal capacity for a hearing scheduled tomorrow. Meanwhile, the bench ordered authorities to take strict action against smoke-emitting vehicles across the city.Justice Karim also suggested that the smog case may be heard daily to ensure faster compliance.

Director General Environment Punjab Imran Hamid Shaikh and other officials appeared in the court for the hearing. The court reviewed government measures, including anti-smoke guns, and questioned their actual effectiveness in reducing pollution. Justice Karim asked officials to report regularly on the steps taken to curb smog in Lahore. The judge noted that transport contributes to 70 percent of the city’s pollution.

He urged the government and citizens to correct their actions rather than blaming others for smog.“ The court is here to guide and assist, not to punish anyone,” Justice Karim emphasized.The LHC has been addressing smog issues in Lahore for the past seven years. The court warned that authorities must show visible results or face stricter judicial oversight. It urged immediate and practical measures to protect public health and reduce harmful emissions in the city.

Read More : Punjab Cities Covered in Smog as Pollution Soars

 Air pollution has surged across Punjab as winter sets in, with Lahore ranking among the world’s most polluted cities. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore reached 339, indicating hazardous levels of particulate matter. Citizens in Lahore and other cities are being advised to take precautions to avoid health risks.

Faisalabad, the province’s industrial hub, also reported alarming pollution levels, with AQI soaring to 692. Other cities faced similar conditions, including Kasur at 614, Patoki 531, Multan 479, and Sheikhupura 457. Authorities warned that toxic air could cause serious respiratory and cardiovascular problems if precautions are ignored.

Doctors have urged citizens to wear masks and limit outdoor exposure, especially for children, elderly, and people with respiratory conditions. They emphasized adopting safety measures, such as using air purifiers and avoiding heavy physical activity outside. Experts said seasonal agricultural burning and vehicle emissions worsen the smog each year.

Last year, Punjab struggled with similar pollution, with smog lingering for days and affecting daily life. Lahore experienced air quality levels more than 80 times higher than WHO’s recommended safe limit. Authorities had closed schools, restricted business hours, and implemented emergency measures to protect public health during peak smog periods.