LHC halts LDA’s projects amidst worsening smog situation

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC), in a significant move to combat the worsening smog crisis in the city, has ordered the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) to halt the construction of a road near Babu Sabu. The decision comes after a hearing on applications related to smog remediation measures.

Justice Shahid Karim, presiding over the case, expressed deep concern about the increasing smog levels in Lahore, attributing it to various LDA projects. In a statement, Justice Karim said, “If you want to control smog, you have to prepare for it six months in advance.” He also made it clear that no project should commence without the approval of the court.

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The LHC has also directed the Water Commission to consult with the Environment Department regarding LDA projects. Justice Karim questioned the LDA’s compliance with necessary environmental assessments, stating, “Ask the Environment Department if the LDA took their opinion before starting the project.”

Justice Karim also criticised the caretaker government’s initiation of development projects, noting that they lack the mandate to do so. He suggested that development projects in Lahore could be delayed for up to four months without any adverse consequences. He also raised concerns about the financial aspect of these projects, saying, “Billions of rupees are being spent, and I don’t know where the money is coming from for the projects.”