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The Lahore High Court (LHC) issued strong directives today, November 22, 2025. Hearing identical petitions regarding the intense smog crisis, the court ordered strict action against smoke-emitting vehicles on the roads. The court emphasised that authorities must intensify these efforts so the public feels compelled to follow environmental rules.
During the proceedings, the Environment Department presented a crucial report to the court. They stated that vehicles will no longer receive registration without obtaining certificates from the department. However, the court observed that current anti-smog guns remain ineffective if smoke emissions continue at the current scale.
Furthermore, the court highlighted alarmingly high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in Bahawalpur. The court remarked that heavy traffic stands out as the major cause for this spike.
The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) also updated the court on road rehabilitation. Currently, 62 such projects are in progress in Lahore. While WASA has handed over 35 completed projects to the LDA, 27 remain pending. Consequently, the court expressed deep concern over excessive construction in the city.
The court declared these numerous construction projects to be a main source of pollution. It stressed that anti-smog measures are useless if dust keeps returning. Therefore, concerned departments must complete their tasks immediately to control this issue. On a positive note, the court termed the heritage preservation efforts at the Neela Gumbad project a welcome development.
Additionally, the court expressed dissatisfaction with WASA’s performance regarding water meter installations. Noting a lack of substantial progress, the LHC sought a progress report on the meters for the next hearing.
Meanwhile, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) legal advisor submitted that the authority has not cut a single tree without permission. The LHC reiterated that such measures are essential, and a ban on tree-cutting is already in place. Finally, the court sought a status report on the Miyawaki forests planted in various areas, including Johar Town.
