Lahore High Court has mandated the closure of smoke-emitting factories. Moreover, all such units must be demolished in cases of repeated offenses. The decision has been taken to combat smog in Punjab, focusing on confiscating vehicles contributing to pollution. The court’s directive, arising from public interest petitions filed by Haroon Farooq and others, underscores the issue’s importance.

Visit TameerEasy Store to buy Quality Construction Items

Justice Shahid Karim of Lahore High Court, emphasized that smoke-emitting factories must be sealed until they submit affidavits to the local government outlining plans to address the problem, and continuous violations could lead to their demolition.

Lahore Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa and other officials were present during the court proceedings. The court urged the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to take strict measures to combat smog. Noting the pressing need to document vehicles contributing to smog, the judge stressed the importance of effective measures in the next two months to address the problem.

Commissioner Lahore assured the court of the government’s commitment to taking stringent action against vehicles emitting smoke. Traffic police have been instructed to impound vehicles contributing to air pollution. Initiatives promoting bicycle usage are underway, including plans for dedicated cycling tracks on roads.

Justice Karim further directed the commissioner to collaborate with the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) for smog awareness campaigns on the media. Additionally, the government is actively working on acquiring more machines to dispose of crop stubble.