Lahore High Court orders heavy fines, sealing for restaurants ignoring anti-smog measures

LAHORE: On Friday, the Lahore High Court (LHC) issued a directive mandating authorities to slap a hefty fine of Rs50,000 on food points and restaurants that fail to comply with the government’s anti-smog measures in the city with the highest pollution levels.

The court further instructed the authorities to seal cafes in Lahore found to be in violation of the prescribed guidelines.

This development comes in response to the persistent smog issue in various cities of Punjab, particularly in Lahore, where the air quality has worsened with the onset of the winter season.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Lahore on Friday afternoon reached 201, categorising it as “very unhealthy.” The primary pollutant identified was PM2.5, a fine-particulate matter known to pose serious health risks as it can enter the lungs and bloodstream.

Residents in several prominent areas of Lahore, including the Defence Housing Authority, Askari 10, Askari 11, Wapda Town, the State Life Housing Society, Bahria Town, and others, express growing concern about the escalating smog problem.

Notable figures, including celebrities, have voiced their apprehensions about the dangers of going outdoors in such conditions.

Despite the provincial government’s recent efforts to combat smog through measures such as partial lockdowns and mask-wearing campaigns, the impact has been limited.

Earlier, the LHC had mandated the closure of all commercial activities in Lahore by 10 p.m. each day as part of efforts to address the rising smog issue.

During Friday’s proceedings, the judge directed authorities to seal restaurants and cafes in Lahore’s Johar Town area for violating the court orders.

Additionally, the administration was instructed to impose fines on restaurants that failed to adhere to the prescribed anti-smog measures.

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