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LAHORE, Jan 12 (APP):The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday expressed satisfaction over action taken against Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) officials involved in illegal tree cutting.
The court directed that no tree or branch be cut in the city without prior approval from the Director General PHA.
Justice Shahid Karim heard various petitions filed by Haroon Farooq and others against ineffective measures to control smog.
During the proceedings, PHA’s counsel, Barrister Haris Azmat, submitted a report and informed the court that officers involved in cutting trees near Doctor Hospital had been suspended. According to the submitted report, PHA Project Director Javed Hamid, along with four other officers and employees, have been placed under suspension.
The court termed the action against those responsible as satisfactory and issued clear instructions that tree cutting anywhere in the city must not be carried out without the explicit permission of the DG PHA. The Member of the Environmental Commission also presented his report regarding the incident near Doctor Hospital.
Barrister Haris Azmat further apprised the court that departmental proceedings under the PEEDA Act have been initiated against the responsible officers.
Justice Shahid Karim questioned PHA’s performance, remarking that assurances are repeatedly given but violations continue to occur.
The member of the Environmental Commission informed the court that he personally inspected the site and found that branches were cut unnecessarily.
Justice Shahid Karim questioned who had authorized the cutting. PHA’s counsel claimed the branches were allegedly removed due to safety concerns, however, the court observed that no accidents had ever occurred due to such branches.
The court was told that a Grade-19 officer has been suspended, inquiries have been launched against three others.
Justice Shahid Karim appreciated the action, saying “Very good,” but emphasized the need for stricter enforcement.
The issue of a tree cut near Data Darbar also came under discussion, with PHA assuring the court that strict action would be taken against those responsible.
The court was informed that steps are being taken to have public parks adopted by affluent individuals or companies, and a meeting in this regard has been scheduled at the PHA office on Wednesday.
Justice Shahid Karim remarked that before cutting any tree or branch, authorities must conduct a thorough assessment to determine whether it can be preserved. He observed that officials involved in illegal tree cutting should be removed from service.
PHA’s counsel also briefed the court on his visit to Nasir Bagh regarding tree cutting and stated that a detailed report would be submitted on Friday.
The court adjourned further hearing of the smog mitigation case until January 16.