The Lahore High Court (LHC) Thursday ordered to stop work on the Niazi Shaheed Interchange project until further orders to eradicate smog in the city, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The court expressed displeasure at the simultaneous initiation of development projects in the city and ordered to impose a fine of Rs3,000 on those who wash cars at home.

“If smog is to be controlled, steps must be taken six months in advance,” Justice Shahid Karim, who heard the smog eradication case, said.

Member Environmental Commission Syed Kamal Haider presented a report on the implementation of the court orders.

“Five major projects are currently under completion in the city. Niazi Shaheed project is going on, and it is causing pollution and traffic problems,” the member environmental commission said.

“You have started the project again,” Justice Shahid Karim questioned the lawyer for the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA).

“What is the government’s problem? What is the hurry to start projects? Stop the Niazi Shaheed Interchange project till February,” he ordered.

“The second issue is the re-allotment of roads,” Member Environmental Commission Syed Kamal Haider told the court.

“Carry out the re-allotment of roads. I have been saying this for three years. Big projects have been started. Billions of rupees are being spent on these projects. It is not known where the money is coming from,” Justice Shahid Karim said.

“The National Engineering Services Pakistan (Nespak) is not doing well. Its consultation is not good. The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) is getting the job done by Nespak,” he added.

Punjab Assistant Advocate General Sheeba Qaiser remained silent in the court.

The PHA lawyer also could not satisfy the court in the government’s defence.

“All the smoke-emitting brick kilns should be demolished,” Justice Shahid Karim ordered and also directed the Environment Department to issue an immediate notification in this regard.

“I will file a criminal case against the Environment Department officer for pollution in Sheikhupura,” he declared and also ordered the installation of wastewater, recycling and treatment plants in houses bigger than one Kanal.

The court also directed the LDA to amend its rules. It also ordered to fine Rs5,000 to those who park on greenbelts.

Reporter: Malik Ashraf