The Punjab government has prohibited Qingqi rickshaws from operating on five major highways in Lahore. This measure aims to improve traffic flow and air quality in the provincial capital.
The ban affects Qingqi rickshaws on Mall Road, Jail Road, Canal Road, Main Boulevard Gulberg, and Main Ferozpur Road. Government officials stated the restriction will reduce traffic congestion on these critical thoroughfares while simultaneously addressing smog reduction objectives.
The decision represents a coordinated effort to enhance urban mobility and environmental conditions throughout Lahore’s busiest transportation corridors.
Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court has ordered enforcement actions against smoke-emitting buses operated by Punjab University. Justice Shahid Karim directed authorities to inspect all government buses and remove polluting vehicles from service immediately.
The court specifically noted that Punjab University buses emit excessive smoke and should be taken off public roads to combat the city’s smog crisis.
Read: Lahore High Court Orders Action Against Punjab University Smoke-Emitting Buses
During environmental commission proceedings, the court addressed unauthorized tree cutting at historic Nasir Bagh. Justice Karim questioned whether the Parks and Horticulture Authority was aware of these activities, noting that tree removal continues despite repeated government assurances against such practices.
Lahore Development Authority counsel explained that an underground parking project requires relocating seven mature trees to address chronic parking problems. The court acknowledged the parking construction near Neela Gumbad as positive while emphasizing the need to balance development with environmental preservation.
Justice Karim confirmed receiving photographic evidence of tree cutting and stressed the historical significance of Nasir Bagh, urging greater environmental protection measures.
