LHC crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken decisive action to address the worsening air pollution in the provincial capital, issuing strict directives for a major crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles across Punjab. The move, driven by Lahore’s rapidly deteriorating air quality and rising smog levels, includes immediate inspections, deployment of monitoring squads, enhanced checks at toll plazas, and a complete ban on polluting vehicles from entering the city. The LHC crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles is one of the most comprehensive anti-smog measures ordered in recent years.

Justice Shahid Karim, while hearing multiple petitions related to smog and environmental degradation, expressed deep concern over the lack of enforcement by government departments. He observed that despite repeated directions, smoke-emitting vehicles continue to ply on the roads, adding thousands of tons of pollutants to Lahore’s air every day. The court noted that Lahore’s condition would have been significantly better had earlier orders been implemented in “letter and spirit.”

Province-Wide Crackdown to Curb Pollution

During the hearing, Justice Karim directed the Punjab government, traffic police, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to launch a rigorous two to three-week campaign targeting all kinds of smoke-emitting vehicles. The court emphasized that the crackdown must be strict, continuous, and highly visible to the public.

“Whenever you go out, you see dozens of smoke-emitting vehicles on the roads,” Justice Karim remarked. He particularly pointed out that vehicles traveling between Lahore, Karachi, and interior Sindh contribute significantly to the pollution crisis.

The LHC instructed the EPA to expand operations beyond central Lahore and ensure strict enforcement at all city entry and exit points. Duty schedules and compliance reports must be submitted to the court regularly.

Ban on Polluting Vehicles at Toll Plazas and Motorways

A major part of the LHC crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles involves strict monitoring and banning of polluting vehicles at motorways and toll plazas. The court ordered:

• Deployment of EPA and police teams at motorway toll plazas in Lahore and Islamabad

• Immediate stopping of any smoke-emitting vehicle attempting to enter Lahore

• Use of drone technology to track and identify polluting vehicles on highways

• Complete bar on such vehicles entering motorways, GT Road, and Multan Road

Justice Karim said a smoke-emitting vehicle should not be allowed to move “even a kilometer” without action from authorities. The court made it clear that vehicles violating emission standards must be impounded immediately.

Public Warning and Awareness Campaign

The court ordered the EPA to display large banners across Lahore, warning commuters that smoke-emitting vehicles would be intercepted and impounded. The EPA informed the judge that many such banners had already been placed in major areas of the city.

However, Justice Karim expressed dissatisfaction with earlier efforts, questioning why the smog situation worsened if warnings were already in place. He directed the EPA to ensure citywide visibility and presence of enforcement teams.

Inspection of Intercity Routes

The LHC noted that vehicles traveling long intercity routes are a major contributor to Lahore’s smog. The court ordered strict checking along:

• Motorways

• GT Road from Lahore to Multan

• Intercity bus terminals

• Entry points linking Lahore with southern Punjab and Sindh

EPA officers and traffic police must remain deployed at all times to stop non-compliant vehicles.

Actions Against Industrial and Waste Pollution

The EPA also informed the court that at least 60 tonnes of old tyres used for burning were seized from various cities in South Punjab and other regions. The burning of tyres is a major contributor to toxic air emissions, especially during the winter smog season.

The court appreciated the seizure but said stricter monitoring is needed to prevent illegal burning of tyres, plastics, and industrial waste.

Environmental Incentives and Building Reforms

In addition to vehicle emissions, the LHC focused on long-term sustainability measures. The court suggested tax incentives for individuals constructing environmentally friendly buildings. The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) informed the court that a proposal has been drafted to provide relief to eco-compliant buildings and that rules are being formulated.

Justice Karim said such initiatives must be widely publicized to encourage more citizens to adopt green construction practices.

The court also highlighted the need for water conservation, recommending that water meters be installed, especially in commercial buildings, to reduce wastage.

Coordination Between Government Departments

During the hearing, representatives from the EPA, Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA), Transport Department, and other agencies appeared before the court. Justice Karim expressed displeasure over the absence of a director-level EPA officer despite previous instructions.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) also presented a report on its development projects. Phase One has been completed, and funds for road restoration have been sent to the Lahore Development Authority (LDA). The court ordered both departments to coordinate to avoid delays.

AQI Inside Courtroom Highlights Severity of Crisis

A startling moment occurred when a law officer informed the court that even inside the courtroom, the Air Quality Index (AQI) had crossed 190, placing it in the “unhealthy” category. Justice Karim said this should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to take aggressive action.

Court Makes Its Intentions Clear

The LHC clarified that the proceedings are not meant to target any specific department but aim to guide the government in tackling Lahore’s environmental crisis. Justice Karim stressed that no one responsible for spreading pollution would be spared.

The next hearings are scheduled for November 10 and the following Monday, by which time full compliance reports must be submitted.

Conclusion

The LHC crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles marks a significant milestone in Lahore’s battle against smog. With strict enforcement, technological monitoring, and interdepartmental coordination, the court aims to protect public health, improve air quality, and set a new benchmark for environmental responsibility in Punjab.