Lahore High Court Orders to Shutdown Rickshaw Factories

The Lahore High Court has ordered the shutdown of Qingqi “Chingchi” rickshaw factories to combat pollution in the city, Express News reported on Friday. Justice Shahid Karim emphasized that the production of these vehicles must stop to prevent further harm to the environment.

Court’s Findings on Chingchi Rickshaws

Officials from the Environmental Department confirmed that the production of “Chingchi” rickshaws should be halted. The court directed that factories be closed within three months unless they regulate their operations. The Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) highlighted a recent fatal accident involving a “Chingchi” rickshaw, further supporting the ban.

Addressing Public Protests and Traffic Disruptions

Justice Karim also addressed ongoing protests on Mall Road, causing significant traffic issues. The court urged authorities to resolve the protesters’ concerns and relocate them to avoid disrupting traffic. It criticized the practice of shutting down large parts of the city for security reasons, especially during events like the PSL, as it created a negative perception of security.

While acknowledging the importance of security for major events, the court emphasized that these measures should not disrupt daily life. It also pointed out that traffic stoppages increase pollution levels, which will worsen with the upcoming heatwave.

Efforts to Improve City Conditions

The CTO updated the court on efforts to improve security without disrupting the city, including proposals for wardens’ allowances and actions against beggars. The court stressed the need for legislation to formalize these efforts. Additionally, the Environmental Department was directed to ensure that new vehicles are used only for environmental enforcement.