Grand Operation Ordered Against Smoke Emitting Vehicles

The Lahore High Court on Friday directed an immediate and comprehensive crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles, according to a report by 24NewsHD TV.

During proceedings on a case concerning smog control, Justice Shahid Karim instructed the Environment Department to deploy special squads at toll plazas to monitor and inspect vehicles. The court also ordered the installation of a vehicle monitoring system at these checkpoints.

Justice Karim emphasized the use of drone technology to identify and take action against polluting vehicles on motorways. He further stated that any smoke-emitting vehicle attempting to enter Lahore should be intercepted and dealt with at the toll plazas.

Additional directives included a ban on entry of such vehicles onto motorways and Multan Road, with a detailed compliance report to be submitted. The court also suggested incentives for constructing eco-friendly buildings, such as tax relief and official certification, and stressed the need for formal legislation to support these measures.

Justice Karim also highlighted the urgency of water conservation, advocating for the installation of water meters, particularly in commercial buildings. He remarked that without meters, water wastage would continue unchecked.

The Environment Department was instructed to promptly activate smog monitoring equipment and vehicles ahead of the approaching smog season. A representative of the Environmental Commission informed the court that the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has prepared a summary proposing benefits for structures built in compliance with environmental regulations, and that rule-making is underway.

Justice Karim directed the LDA to issue tenders and publicize them to encourage awareness and adoption of environmentally friendly construction practices. He also reiterated the need to halt the burning of crop residues, stating that immediate action is essential.

Orders were also issued to deploy environmental squads and monitoring systems at toll plazas in Lahore and Islamabad.

During the session, the principal of MAO College submitted a report addressing the restoration of college grounds and other institutional concerns. Justice Karim advised the principal to submit written complaints for formal court action.

“If someone objects, just show them the court order,” he added.

Deputy Attorney General Asad Ali Bajwa, along with representatives from the Environmental Commission, LDA, Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA), and traffic authorities, were present during the hearing. The court adjourned proceedings until May 16.