LHC urges heavy fines on polluters

LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has urged the government to enact legislation imposing substantial fines on individuals and entities responsible for polluting the air and exacerbating smog.

Justice Shahid Karim, while hearing a set of petitions related to smog control and environmental protection, stressed the need for a cultural shift to address the growing environmental crisis.

Justice Karim suggested that markets should remain closed for at least one year to reduce pollution levels.

He also emphasized that attributing the recent reduction in smog solely to favourable weather is insufficient, acknowledging the efforts of government institutions and individuals who worked tirelessly to combat smog.

During the proceedings, Advocate General Punjab (AGP) Khalid Ishaq presented a report outlining steps taken to control smog.

He highlighted that fines for smoky vehicles, detected through Safe City cameras, had been doubled for repeat offenses.

Justice Karim lauded the initiative, noting its potential to reduce smog.

Justice Karim further recommended introducing heavy penalties for those contributing to pollution, describing such legislation as a significant step toward safeguarding the environment for future generations.

AGP Ishaq informed the court that a proposal for such legislation is nearing completion.

The AGP also reported actions taken against unlawful industrial plants, including the demolition of 19 illegal facilities in Gujranwala.

Praising the government's efforts, Justice Karim remarked that the administration should continue its operations without fear of tribunals.

He also commended AGP Ishaq for his proactive approach and valuable assistance to the court.

On the issue of stubble burning, Justice Karim directed that district commissioners be transferred if such incidents occur in their jurisdictions.

He further warned school administrations that non-compliance with court orders regarding environmental regulations would lead to their closure.

The court also set a January deadline for schools to ensure compliance with regulations, particularly regarding the use of school buses.

In earlier sessions, Justice Karim called on the provincial government to discourage the development of housing societies on agricultural land to preserve the environment and make water treatment plants mandatory for 10-marla homes.

He also urged the government to draft a comprehensive ten-year policy to combat smog.

Questioning ongoing construction projects, including those under the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), Justice Karim suggested that the government consider relocating industries outside Lahore, similar to Beijing's approach.

Additionally, he proposed restrictions on extravagant wedding functions and limiting them to a single event with one-dish meals as a measure to curb environmental degradation.

Meanwhile, the metrological department has forecast cold and dry weather in most parts of the country, including Lahore during the next 24 hours.

The weatherman said continental air was prevailing over most parts of the country. They predicted that cold and dry weather was expected in most parts of the country. Smog (in patches) was likely to prevail at isolated plain areas of Punjab during morning and night hours.

with additional input from app