With air quality concerns taking center stage, the Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday directed the suspension of all new construction projects between October and March while encouraging the promotion of cycling to combat rising smog levels in the provincial capital.
Justice Shahid Karim, presiding over the case, emphasized the need for sustainable measures to improve air quality during the smog season.
During the hearing, Justice Shahid Karim questioned the government lawyer about the number of ongoing construction projects in the city.
The lawyer disclosed that there were currently five active projects, including one in Shahdara that was nearing completion.
The court, however, directed that work on the Niazi Interchange to Babu Sabu project could begin in February, but with a catch - the government must provide data on how these projects would impact air quality.
"The environmental impact of these projects must be assessed, and the government needs to inform the court about the data collected at the next hearing," Justice Karim said.
Furthermore, the Lahore High Court mandated the inclusion of water treatment plants in the construction of ten marla houses.
Justice Shahid Karim also offered a novel solution to combat air pollution during the smog season: promoting cycling. With Lahore often experiencing hazardous smog levels during the winter months, encouraging non-polluting modes of transportation like cycling could significantly reduce pollution levels.
