LHC calls for coordinated crackdown on smog contributors

Justice Shahid Karim urges system-based action and questions rising traffic pollution in Lahore

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Photo: File

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LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday directed authorities to devise a stricter and more coordinated mechanism against repeat traffic and environmental violators contributing to smog, observing that serious violations often go unchecked while motorcyclists are disproportionately targeted during enforcement drives.

Justice Shahid Karim made the remarks while hearing a set of petitions related to anti-smog measures filed by Haroon Farooq and others.

During the proceedings, the judge observed that authorities must formulate an effective system in coordination with the Environment Department to ensure strict action against repeat offenders responsible for worsening pollution levels.

The court noted that major traffic violations frequently escaped scrutiny, whereas traffic wardens were commonly seen stopping motorcyclists on roadsides.

"I personally drive and monitor traffic conditions myself," Justice Karim remarked during the hearing.

The Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) informed the court that a week-long crackdown against smog-related violations was under way.

He said action had been taken against sand-laden trolleys and other violators under revised traffic laws, under which fines had recently been increased.

However, the court observed that increasing fines alone would not solve the problem.

"Higher fines may be one step towards traffic control, but they are not a complete solution," Justice Karim said.

The court further observed that Lahore's rapidly increasing number of vehicles had become a major contributor to smog and stressed the need for preventive measures before winter conditions intensified pollution levels.

Addressing the counsel for the Environment Department, the judge questioned the whereabouts of electric scooters previously procured by the department, asking whether they were parked at officers' homes as they were not visible on roads.

Justice Karim remarked that practical use of electric scooters could contribute positively to environmental protection efforts.

The judge also advised officials to occasionally move without official protocol in order to better understand ground realities, observing that many civic and traffic issues only become visible through direct monitoring.

In response, the CTO stated that he performed nearly 14 hours of duty daily and spent around 10 hours on roads. Justice Karim appreciated the officer's "positive and capable approach" but criticized Lahore's poor road infrastructure and haphazard patchwork practices.

The court also pointed out an unnecessary road cut near Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, prompting laughter in the courtroom when the judge jokingly remarked, "We can at least mention Shaukat Khanum's name, can't we?"

The Lahore High Court directed the CTO to submit a detailed report and adjourned further proceedings until next week.