Constitutional bench seeks reports on pollution control from provinces

ISLAMABAD: Since formation in wake of the enactment of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, the Supreme Court’s six-member constitutional bench on Tuesday took up a decades-old pending case on environmental pollution and sought reports from all provinces on the measures taken to save environment and mitigate pollution.

“This case dates back to 1993,” Justice Jamal Mandokhail remarked and added “Paperwork alone won’t resolve this. We need tangible action.”

Justice Mandokhail noted the severity of smog in Punjab, stating that visibility has become almost zero. “We have done little to protect the environment,” he added.

Constituional bench head Justice Aminuddin Khan, underscored the urgent need to take measures to control pollution.

Addressing the Environmental Protection Agency’s Director General, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar questioned the role of environmental agencies stating “Is it the court’s job to monitor your agency? If the court has to oversee environmental issues, what purpose do these institutions serve?” he observed.

Justice Aminuddin Khan said that bureaucratic efforts were insufficient and there was a nee to take concrete measures in this regard.

Justice Musarrat Hilali expressed concern over unregulated housing projects proliferating across the country.

Justice Mandokhail emphasized that pollution has become a nationwide issue, exacerbated by vehicle emissions and fuel adulteration. “Environmental pollution isn’t confined to Islamabad alone. Provincial collaboration is essential if we are to see results,” he said.

Justice Mazhar raised concerns over the continued vacant position of the Climate Change Authority chairman noting that the authority continues to remain inactive without a chief. “Only with a chairperson in place can the authority function effectively,” he said.

The bench also addressed the growing issue of smog in Punjab. “We are witnessing the impact of environmental pollution firsthand,” Justice Mandokhail remarked. “Visibility has deteriorated significantly in Punjab due to smog, and we have failed to prioritise environmental protection.”

Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan criticized the depletion of green fields for new housing settlements, questioning why high-rise apartments are not build instead of large bungalows.

“What legacy are we leaving for future generations?” he asked, suggesting the promotion of a “flat culture” over sprawling six-kanal bungalows.

Justice Hilali pointed out the proliferation of poultry farms and marble factories along schools in Mansehra, and urged the field inspections instead of sitting in offices.

The bench directing the federal and provincial governments to submit comprehensive pollution control reports within three weeks adjourned the hearing until then at the request of the Additional Attorney General.