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LAHORE, Dec 05 (APP): The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday issued strict directions for action against smoke-emitting police vehicles while hearing multiple petitions related to smog and environmental pollution.
The court also sought a comprehensive report on the cutting and relocation of trees in the city.
Justice Shahid Karim presided over the hearing and ordered the Environment Department to inspect all police vehicles and proceed against those found releasing harmful emissions. The court further directed that vehicles of all government departments and educational institutions also be checked for compliance.
During the proceedings, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) was instructed to form a high-level committee and submit a detailed report on recent tree cutting. The court also sought the authority’s policy regarding the relocation of trees from one site to another.
The court expressed concern over the lack of oversight, noting that 123 trees had reportedly been relocated without the PHA’s knowledge. Justice Shahid Karim remarked that the authority must know which trees are being shifted and who is responsible for their care, calling for a clear policy on the matter.
The court directed the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) to make its development plans public. It noted that citizens protesting against tree cutting should be invited for consultations so their concerns can be addressed. “Hiding information leads to complications; development projects must be transparent,” the court observed.
The court further suggested considering the declaration of Sundays as commercial-free days and asked the PHA to submit recommendations on measures the LDA should adopt regarding construction activities.
The hearing was adjourned until December 12.