LHC lifts stay on development projects

LAHORE, Apr 20 (APP):The Lahore High Court (LHC) has recalled its earlier restraining order on development projects initiated by the Communication and Works (C&W) Department, including underground parking projects at Taxali Gate and Sheranwala Gate, clearing the way for their continuation following the approval of new environmental regulations.
According to a written order from a previous hearing, released on Monday in connection with petitions relating to environmental issues by Justice Shahid Karim, the court was informed that members of the commission had submitted a report incorporating recommendations from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and various civil society representatives. The report confirmed that regulations concerning the protection of public parks and green belts were finalized and officially notified on March 17, 2026.
The court noted that during the earlier hearing, the commission had been directed to convene a meeting to consider stakeholders’ suggestions. With those directions now fully complied with, the court observed that no legal impediment remained in the way of the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) to enforce the 2026 regulations.
Consequently, the restraining order issued on January 30, 2026, regarding ongoing development projects was withdrawn.
However, the court directed all relevant departments to strictly adhere to the newly approved regulations, particularly in matters concerning the handling and re-plantation of trees. The PHA has been tasked with ensuring that all procedural requirements are fulfilled prior to the commencement of any project.
Furthermore, commission members have been instructed to oversee each stage of permissions granted by the PHA to ensure compliance with environmental safeguards.
The case was adjourned for further proceedings.