LHC proposes water emergency

Seeks reforms in school transport systems to combat smog, reduce emissions

LAHORE:

Justice Shahid Karim of the Lahore High Court (LHC) has urged the government to declare a water emergency, citing the rapid depletion of underground water levels.

He warned that the situation could worsen if the region does not receive snowfall this year.

Justice Karim made these remarks during the hearing of multiple petitions addressing smog control, environmental pollution, and groundwater conservation.

Various government departments submitted reports on their initiatives, but Justice Karim expressed concern over the lack of comprehensive action to address the water crisis.

He emphasised the urgent need to prevent water wastage, particularly through plastic pipes, and pointed out that even the Lahore High Court's courtyard is cleaned using such methods.

"We have long been advocating for mandatory water recycling plants in houses of ten marlas or more," Justice Karim remarked.

Justice Karim questioned the performance of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), asking, "Where is the PDMA's Director General? Shouldn't the DG have taken notice of this situation? If the PDMA cannot function properly, it might as well be closed."

He criticised the reliance on courts and the Judicial Water and Environment Commission to shoulder responsibilities that should fall under administrative bodies.

WASA's counsel informed the court that work on water meter installations is underway, starting with commercial properties and later expanding to residential areas. However, Justice Karim urged the authority to expedite its efforts and suggested raising water tariffs to Rs15,000–Rs20,000 to discourage wastage.

A member of the Judicial Water and Environment Commission highlighted water wastage at car showrooms, where vehicles are washed daily without regard for conservation.

Justice Karim proposed increasing tariffs for car showrooms to curb this practice.

The commission also pointed out that the Forest Department had allocated 600 acres of land to the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) for plantation, but no trees have been planted.

Despite being asked for a report, RUDA failed to comply, drawing criticism from the court.

On the topic of school transport, the commission member informed the court that private schools are charging exorbitant fees for bus services, ranging from Rs2,000 to Rs10,000 per child. Justice Karim called for action, starting with prominent schools like Aitcheson College, suggesting that at least 50% of students should commute by bus to reduce vehicular emissions.

Justice Karim also praised government initiatives to combat smog, acknowledging recent efforts to mitigate environmental pollution.

The court has sought further reports from various departments and adjourned the proceedings to the following week.

Justice Karim emphasised the need for immediate and coordinated efforts to address the water crisis and ensure environmental sustainability.