LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has asked for final arguments on a petition that challenges the construction of a multi-story annexe of the Chief Minister House in GOR-I allegedly in violation of building regulations.
The petitioner, Khadija Amjad Wazir, filed the case as public interest litigation, claiming that the provincial government approved the multi-storey project to accommodate guests of the Chief Minister, without regard for building regulations.
The petitioner’s counsel argued that the project was constructed with a basement and three storeys without approval from the competent authority.
Besides, the counsel also requested that the court restrain the authorities from carrying out the alleged unlawful construction and order the demolition of the illegal structure.
In response, the communication and works department informed the court that the building in question was being constructed with a basement, ground floor, and first floor, with an overall elevation of 36 feet and 10 inches above the road level.
The project was designed to cater to the accommodation needs of foreign delegations, senior officials, and guests.
The department questioned the locus standi of the petitioner to agitate the matter, stating that it was a policy decision of the government and asked the court to dismiss the petition.
The hearing has been adjourned until Thursday, and Justice Asim Hafeez has directed the lawyers of the petitioner and the government to present their final arguments.
