Projects must not harm environment: LHC

Court directs authorities to prioritise environment-friendly development projects, ensure environmental protection

LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has directed authorities to prioritise environment-friendly development projects and ensure that environmental protection is fully integrated into all future development schemes.

The court also sought a detailed report from the Environment Protection Department and revenue authorities regarding compliance with environmental laws and ongoing enforcement measures.

Justice Shahid Karim issued the directions while hearing multiple petitions filed by Haroon Farooq and others seeking effective steps to control worsening smog in the province.

Expressing concern over the incident, Justice Karim observed that development projects must not result in unnecessary deforestation and stressed that alternative planning should be adopted to preserve green cover wherever possible.

He further stated that environmental safeguards must be made an integral part of all development planning and warned that violations of environmental laws would not be tolerated under any circumstances.