LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Friday directed the authorities to inspect all government buses and immediately take off the road any vehicle found emitting smoke, as part of measures to curb rising smog in the provincial capital.
During the hearing of petitions related to air pollution, the court specifically ordered that Punjab University buses emitting smoke be removed from service. The bench also took notice of reported tree cutting at Nasir Bagh and directed that its original design be preserved. Noting the park’s historical importance, the court sought a detailed report on the condition of its trees by December 1.
A member of the environmental commission informed the court that complaints regarding tree removal at Nasir Bagh had resurfaced, prompting the bench to question whether the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) was aware of the activity. The court observed that trees continue to be felled despite repeated assurances from government authorities that no such action would be allowed.
Responding to the court’s queries, counsel for the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) said an underground parking facility was planned at Nasir Bagh and that seven large trees would be relocated to accommodate the project. He maintained that the facility was essential due to chronic parking problems in the area.
The bench noted that the government was paying attention to environmental concerns and appreciated ongoing discussions on the use of underground water. It added that parking issues existed across Lahore and emphasised the need for constructing proper parking facilities, including a parking plaza near Neela Gumbad.
The environmental commission member further informed the court that consultations were held with the Secretary Schools Education regarding school buses dedicated to student pick and drop. A law officer stated that the government was working on the matter and that several schools had signed MoUs with private transport companies.
The court also remarked that installing water meters would help prevent wastage and directed WASA to assess the groundwater level and report whether it was declining. The proceedings were adjourned until the next hearing.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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