Schools could be closed for 3 days a week in Lahore, observes LHC judge
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Justice Shahid Karim eyes closures for construction works in city to combat smog; Orders all government vehicles to undergo checks within 10 days; Advises action against negligent deputy commissioners; Lahore's AQI peaks at 222
The Lahore High Court (LHC) Justice Shahid Karim, during a hearing on Friday, emphasised the need for strict anti-smog measures, including halting construction activities and closing schools for three days a week in Lahore city.
He observed that smog mitigation requires phased implementation of restrictions rather than sudden relaxations, the 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Friday.
The court reviewed reports submitted by the Environmental Commission, Punjab government, and PHA regarding actions to curb smog.
During the hearing, a commission member highlighted increased pollution due to rising traffic in Lahore. The judge directed the environment department to provide a detailed report on sugar mills and factories releasing contaminated water.
The Punjab government claimed a 45% reduction in pollution due to its measures, but Justice Karim cautioned that leniency could reverse these gains. He criticised the continued operation of brick kilns and suggested action against negligent deputy commissioners.
Justice Karim also ordered all government vehicles to undergo checks within 10 days and called for the transport department to adopt e-tagging systems integrated with modern technologies, including AI and PITB software, for vehicle fitness monitoring.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC), Justice Karim warned of action against the CEO for failure to comply with court directives regarding road cleaning schedules.
In a written order issued in the case yesterday, Justice Shahid Karim mandated public and private schools to arrange buses for students or face closure. He also instructed year-round closure of markets by 8pm and prohibited water sprinkling on roads during school hours (6am-10am). The judge stressed extending anti-smog initiatives beyond Lahore to all of Punjab.
Despite these measures, Lahore remains the second most polluted city globally, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 222 on Friday. Raiwind recorded an alarming AQI of 832, followed by 356 near the US Consulate, 288 in Johar Town, 227 in Cantonment, and 226 on Mall Road.
Reporters: Malik Ashraf and Samrah Fatima