LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday heard multiple petitions regarding measures to combat smog in the city, with Justice Shahid Karim presiding over the proceedings. The court raised concerns over the absence of Environment Protection Agency (EPA) vehicles in Lahore and sought a detailed deployment plan from the government.
EPA vehicles and deployment plan
The court raised the question regarding the absence of EPA vehicles and why were they not visible in Lahore. A government lawyer responded that these vehicles had been deployed across Punjab to which Justice Karim directed the authorities to share their deployment plan with the court, stating it would assist in understanding where the placement and operations. He further remarked that the government had spent significant funds in this sector.
Industrial compliance and water conservation
A member of the Judicial Water Commission highlighted concerns over industrial violations, noting that department officials often fail to document infractions during inspections. The court observed that Lahore faces severe environmental challenges and ordered industries to submit emission reports every six months, followed by random inspections.
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The commission also commended a private textile industry on Defence Road for its environmental initiatives, including collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) to install a water treatment plant and the use of biofuel. “Such industries deserve recognition, and similar efforts should be replicated across Punjab,” the commission stated. The court further directed the inclusion of the Chamber of Commerce in environmental efforts.
Water meter installation and sewage work
The commission informed the court that water meters had arrived, with the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) presenting a sample in court. “This is a major step toward water conservation,” the court observed, noting that the initiative was also part of the current fiscal budget.
WASA’s counsel stated that the meters, sourced from China, would first be installed in commercial buildings and later in upscale areas as part of a pilot project involving 10,000 units. Additionally, the agency assured the court that sewerage pipeline work would be completed by the end of July, before the monsoon season.
Tree cutting concerns and adjournment
The court was informed about a private society near Thokar Niaz Beg cutting trees for solarisation. Expressing displeasure, the Judicial Water Commission member warned, “They must be issued an immediate notice, if even a single tree is cut, action will be taken.”
The hearing was adjourned until next Friday.