The Lahore High Court has mandated immediate action against smoke-emitting buses of the University of Punjab, to address the region’s worsening smog crisis. The court specifically directed authorities to inspect and remove Punjab University’s polluting buses from public roads.
During proceedings, the LHC bench ordered comprehensive inspections of all government-operated buses. The court instructed authorities to impound any vehicles found emitting excessive smoke, citing Punjab University’s fleet as a primary example requiring immediate attention.
Justice Shahid Karim emphasized the urgent need for these measures to combat Lahore’s deteriorating air quality and protect public health.
The environmental commission reported unauthorised tree cutting at historic Nasir Bagh, prompting judicial scrutiny. The court questioned whether the Parks and Horticulture Authority was aware of these activities, noting that tree felling continues despite repeated government assurances against such practices.
Read: Lahore Ranks as World’s Second Most Polluted City with Hazardous Smog
Justice Karim affirmed Nasir Bagh’s historical significance and confirmed receiving photographic evidence of tree cutting at the site.
Lahore Development Authority counsel explained that the Nasir Bagh project involves creating an underground parking facility to address persistent parking problems. The plan includes relocating seven mature trees rather than cutting them down.
The court acknowledged the parking construction near Neela Gumbad as a positive development while maintaining vigilance over environmental protection measures. The bench reiterated the government’s stated commitment to addressing environmental concerns alongside urban development needs.
