The Lahore High Court (LHC) recently mandated fines for cafes operating late at night in residential zones. Justice Shahid Karim issued these orders during a hearing on petitions, including one by Haroon Farooq, regarding inadequate smog control measures.
During the proceedings, the Judicial Water and Environment Commission highlighted numerous cafes in Johar Town exceeding their allowed operating hours. The assistant commissioner of Model Town corroborated this, noting delays in cafe closures.
Responding to these reports, the court announced stringent penalties. A Rs 200,000 fine for the first offence will be imposed, escalating to Rs 500,000 for a second violation. A third offence will result in the sealing of the cafe.
Additionally, the court ordered the immediate restoration of the MA College grounds. The hearing is adjourned until January 26.
This decision follows the court’s previous directive mandating a 10 pm closure for cafes.
