The Lahore High Court has ordered that no trees along Canal Road be cut without prior approval from the court, emphasizing the importance of preserving the city’s green heritage and enforcing strict environmental safeguards.
Referring to tree cutting, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) counsel stated the issue was misunderstood.
However, the court remarked that the PHA Director General should apologize for his earlier statement.
The judge warned the PHA counsel that if the department was found cutting trees, their license would be canceled.
The court clarified it is not opposed to the Yellow Line project but noted that an independent consultant has been appointed for it. “Canal Road has already been declared a heritage site, and Supreme Court rulings exist in its protection,” the court added.
It also ordered plantation in Johar Town following the Miyawaki urban forest model.
Justice Shahid Karim questioned why the inauguration of the smog emission analyzer machine had not taken place. The government lawyer admitted it was delayed due to certain reasons.
The LHC while hearing petitions related to smog control and ordered to take action against restaurants operating beyond midnight.
A member of the environmental commission informed the court he observed smoke near Sheikhupura while traveling to Islamabad. “When we demanded a report, it had no substance,” he added.
The court ordered an immediate fine of Rs1.5 million on the brick kiln near Hiran Minar and directed officials to obtain a sworn affidavit from the violators. The court warned that if kilns in Sheikhupura violate regulations again, they would be demolished. It also ordered the immediate removal of the head of the environment department in Sheikhupura.
Justice Shahid Karim presided over the hearing of petitions filed by Haroon Farooq and others. Officers from the environment and other concerned departments were present during the proceedings.
