Commission to assess implementation of train stay

LAHORE

A division bench of the Lahore High Court appointed a local commission to inspect and then report about implementation of a stay order against the construction work of Orange Line Metro train within 200 feet radius of 11 heritage sites protected under the laws.

Bench also extended stay against the construction till March 3.

Bench on request of attorney general deferred further hearing of a contempt petition against the constructions around historical buildings.

Attorney general sought time to file some important documents relating to this project.

Bench had already suspended the NOCs issued for the project and restrained the authorities from carrying out any construction within distance of 200 feet of protected immovable antiquity and special premises.

The eleven different historical buildings were falling in the way of the Orange Line, including Supreme Court Lahore registry branch, Shalimar Garden, Chauburji, Saint Andrew Church, General Post Office building, tomb of Mehrunisa, Budhu Ka Awa, Baba Mauj Daria shrine, Shah Cheragh Building, Aiwan-e-Auqaf and and Dai Anga Tomb.

The federal government had also moved an application requesting to vacate the stay.

On a query, as to why the feral government jumped in a project of provincial government, attorney general had replied that in this project the funds from foreign country were provided through federal government and as such it was necessary party.

He submitted that due to stay order the construction was delayed and it would increase the cost.