LHC issues contempt notice to PU VC

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday issued a contempt of court notice to the Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab (PU) after a dispute arose over the authority to permit tree cutting on campus.

Justice Shahid Karim issued the notice while hearing petitions, including one filed by Haroon Farooq, regarding measures to combat smog in Lahore and ensure environmental protection.

During the proceedings, the vice chancellor's written reply was submitted to the court.

Counsel for Punjab University argued that the vice chancellor holds administrative powers to grant permission for tree cutting within the university premises.

However, Justice Karim observed that clear and binding judicial orders were already in place restricting the felling of trees without prior court approval.

He remarked that any violation of the court's environmental policy would have legal consequences and could not be justified under administrative authority.

The development comes amid broader judicial scrutiny of environmental compliance in the provincial capital.

The court has been actively monitoring measures aimed at reducing smog and preserving green spaces.

In the same hearing, the court extended its stay order on ongoing development projects at Sheranwala Gate and Taxali Gate, warning that lack of cooperation from relevant authorities could lead to continued suspension of such initiatives.

Earlier, a member of the Judicial Water Commission informed the court that no representative of the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) attended a meeting concerning the tree protection policy.

Expressing displeasure, Justice Karim remarked that such an approach was unacceptable and could further delay development works.

The court directed the concerned departments to submit compliance reports at the next hearing and adjourned the case for one week.