In a significant development regarding smog remediation, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued orders to maintain the ongoing ban on construction in the city and has called for a work-from-home policy for schools and offices. This decision was made during the hearing of the smog remediation case, where the court expressed concerns over various environmental issues, including tree-cutting practices. The court directed authorities to conduct an investigation to determine the whereabouts of trees that were recently cut down. Reports have emerged suggesting that these trees were sold in the timber market, and if the claims are proven true, the court has ordered that a case be registered against those responsible.

The court also called for the Punjab Transport Secretary to appear before the court in connection with this matter. In its remarks, the court emphasized that the situation would not improve unless deputy commissioners were transferred. The court also dealt with a contempt of court petition related to actions in the Tollington Market, expressing displeasure over the inclusion of commission members as parties to the petition. The court dismissed the petition and imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the petitioner. As part of the ongoing efforts to combat smog, the Lahore High Court had previously directed that a report be submitted regarding the implementation of a school bus policy.

Schools found violating the court's order will face closure after the winter vacations. Additionally, the court ordered the Transport Department to carry out regular inspections of heavy vehicles, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations. In a related decision, the court directed that the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) cease the planting of the invasive Conocarpus tree species in Lahore. The court ruled that these non-native plants should be replaced with indigenous tree species, in a bid to improve the city's environmental health. The Environmental Protection Department also informed the court that a complete ban on stone crushing had been imposed.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan