LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has told the Lahore High Court that there is a forecast of severe heatwave in the province during the coming week with temperatures expected to cross 50 degrees Celsius.

A PDMA representative on Friday informed the court about the impending heatwave during a hearing on petitions related to smog and environmental pollution.

The official said there would be intensity in the heatwave.

Justice Shahid Karim expressed concern at the forecast and noted that the increase in heatwave was alarming.

The PDMA official also mentioned that the heatwaves were affecting plants and trees.

The judge ordered the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) to take measures for the maintenance of all public parks in Lahore and make a policy for park restoration with the financial support of the local residents.

A lawyer for the Central Business District (CBD) said two tanks had been constructed to store rainwater. The judge emphasized the need for steps to conserve the rainwater.

Justice Shahid Karim indicated that the court would extend market hours before Eidul Azha and remarked that an order to this effect would be issued in the next hearing.

The judge would resume the hearing on June 7.

Published in Dawn, June 1st, 2024