LHC stresses eco-friendly development

LAHORE, Jun 04 (APP): The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday directed authorities to prioritize environment-friendly development projects and ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws while hearing petitions related to smog prevention and environmental pollution.

Justice Shahid Karim also ordered the immediate suspension of garbage burning behind Paragon Society, directing the Environment Department to deploy monitoring teams at the site on a permanent basis. The court further sought a detailed report regarding the ownership of the land where the waste is being burned.

During the hearing, a member of the Environmental Commission submitted a report on the felling of 14 trees in Kasur. Expressing concern, the court observed that tree-cutting during development projects should be avoided wherever possible and alternative plans should be devised to preserve existing trees.

“Environment-friendly development is the need of the hour, and environmental protection must remain a key consideration in all development activities,” Justice Shahid Karim remarked.

The court made it clear that violations of environmental laws would not be tolerated. It directed authorities to take strict action against sugar mills failing to comply with environmental regulations and court orders, warning that non-compliant mills could be sealed if necessary.

The issue of garbage burning behind Paragon Society and the pollution caused by it also came under discussion. The court instructed the Environment Department to maintain a permanent presence at the site to prevent further incidents.

To determine land ownership and jurisdiction, the court ordered the involvement of revenue authorities and directed the patwari and tehsildar concerned to submit a comprehensive report at the next hearing. The Punjab government’s law officer was also tasked with coordinating with revenue officials to prepare a complete report on the matter.

Deputy Director Environment Ali Ejaz and Environmental Commission Secretary Farhan Saeed Sheikh appeared before the court. Representatives of the Punjab government, federal government, Lahore Development Authority (LDA), Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA), Traffic Police, WASA and other relevant departments were also present.

The court adjourned further proceedings until June 8 after seeking special reports from the Environment Department and revenue authorities, directing all concerned institutions to ensure full compliance with its orders.