LHC orders school closures, other measures to mitigate smog

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday ordered closure of all schools on Saturday as it heard case related to smog in the provincial capital.

Justice Shahid Karim also ordered offices to implement a two-day work from home policy as part of measures to mitigate smog. 

The hearing was attended by the Lahore Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa, and other government officials.

The only solution the government has is to regulate holidays in Punjab, LHC remarked.

Read Smog remediation case on the docket

The court inquired from the Lahore commissioner regarding progress to control smog, saying that the condition is getting worse with new videos appearing on social media every day.

Moreover, the court also directed the interim Punjab government to transfer the deputy commissioners of Sheikhupura, Hafizabad, and Gujranwala and also to issue contempt notices to these officers.

In addition, court remarked that most of the smog is caused by vehicles while suggesting promoting cycling and expanding the use of public transport, as traffic is another issue that disrupts the entire city.

Read more Punjab declares smog emergency

The court further directed that a meeting of the members of the Judicial Water and Environment Commission be held with the chief secretary of Punjab and that the suggested policies be implemented.

Later, the court adjourned the hearing until Wednesday.