Lahore High Court Suspends Parking Projects, Takes Action on Environmental Violations
The Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken decisive action to address environmental concerns in the provincial capital, ordering the immediate suspension of ongoing underground parking projects at two key locations. Justice Shahid Karim issued the directive on Friday while hearing petitions related to smog control measures in Lahore.
Court Halts Parking Construction at Historic Gates
During the proceedings, members of the Environmental Commission, Syed Kamal Haider and Mian Irfan Akram, informed the court about significant environmental violations. They reported that underground parking facilities were being constructed near Taxali Gate and Sheranwala Gate without proper arrangements for tree transplantation. In response, Justice Karim ordered an immediate halt to these projects and summoned the Director General of the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and the Advocate General Punjab for the next hearing.
Punjab University Faces Contempt Proceedings
The court also addressed serious violations at Punjab University, where trees had been cut in defiance of earlier court orders. Justice Karim took strong notice of this contempt of court and issued contempt notices to the Vice Chancellor and Registrar of Punjab University. The court further directed that this matter be referred to the Anti-Corruption Department for investigation.
The court observed that the Director General of the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) should have taken suo motu notice of the tree cutting at Punjab University, but the role of the PHA was not visible in this matter. Justice Karim ordered the DG PHA to hold meetings with the Vice Chancellors of all universities and appear in person at the next hearing.
Additional Environmental Concerns Raised
During the hearing, the petitioner's counsel highlighted several other environmental issues:
- Unchecked tree cutting in the surroundings of Data Darbar that has damaged the local environment
- A tragic incident where a mother and her young daughter died after falling into a manhole
The court expressed deep grief over the tragic deaths and observed that negligence and lack of proper oversight had resulted in the loss of precious lives.
Broader Implications for Lahore's Environment
This hearing represents a significant development in Lahore's ongoing battle against environmental degradation and smog. The court's actions demonstrate:
- A strong commitment to enforcing environmental regulations
- Accountability for institutions violating court orders
- Protection of green spaces in urban development projects
- Concern for public safety in infrastructure projects
The court has adjourned the hearing until February 2, when further developments in these environmental protection measures will be addressed. This case highlights the growing judicial oversight of environmental matters in Pakistan's second-largest city, particularly as Lahore continues to grapple with severe smog conditions during winter months.
