Anti-smog measures: LHC orders online classes, work from home policy

LAHORE:The Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued directives to enforce a policy for online classes for schools and work-from-home for offices. The court upheld a ban on construction activities in City to address the worsening smog crisis.

During a hearing on smog mitigation measures, the court voiced concerns over environmental degradation, including large-scale tree cutting, and ordered an investigation into the disposal of felled trees. Allegations that the trees were sold in the timber market led the court to instruct authorities to register cases against those found guilty.

The LHC summoned the Punjab Transport Secretary to address smog-related issues and highlighted the need for administrative adjustments, including the transfer of deputy commissioners, to ensure progress on environmental challenges. In a separate matter, the court dismissed a contempt of court petition regarding Tollinton Market, imposing a fine of Rs50,000 on the petitioner while expressing dissatisfaction with procedural shortcomings.

The court also reaffirmed its directive for implementing a school bus policy, warning that schools failing to comply would face closure after the winter break. Additionally, it instructed the Transport Department to carry out regular inspections of heavy vehicles to enforce safety standards.

To further improve environmental health, the LHC banned the planting of the invasive Conocarpus tree species and directed the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) to replace them with indigenous trees. The Environmental Protection Department reported that a complete ban on stone crushing activities had also been enforced.