LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Friday expressed displeasure over allowing the markets to function beyond 8pm, seeking an explanation for this relaxation to businesses from the Punjab government.

The explanation was sought by Justice Shahid Karim, hearing identical petitions regarding smog and other environmental issues.

The judge expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s decision to allow markets to remain open until 10pm, without a prior submission of a report to the court.

Justice Karim asked Advocate General of Punjab (AGP) Khalid Ishaq that how the decision was made without the court’s approval.

The judge had recommended that commercial markets and shops should not be allowed to remain open after 8pm, asking the AGP to present suggestions for a long-term policy to tackle smog.

The principal law officer assured the court that he would immediately inquire into the matter.

He mentioned that the sunlight in Lahore on Friday was just as bright as in Islamabad.

The judge said, “We should not lose this opportunity as smog might return if precautionary measures are not taken.”

The judge said it appeared that pressure groups and mafias played a role in the decision-making process about the change in market timings.

He also directed the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) to devise a clear policy for street vendors, stating that their operations on roads affect traffic flow. He said a designated area should be allocated for them to prevent congestion on roads.

A LDA’s counsel assured the court that efforts were underway to facilitate street vendors.

The AGP also informed the court about the implementation of vehicle fitness inspections every six months, with designated checkpoints being established for this purpose.

The judge suggested tagging vehicles with fitness certificates so the Punjab Safe City Authority (PSCA) cameras could identify compliant vehicles.

Mr Ishaq agreed with the court, saying that the PSCA could handle this task.

The judge also stressed upon the need to monitor motorcycles and small loaders closely, saying these were a major reason behind the air pollution in the city.

The judge expressed his concern over the solid waste burning near ring road, particularly on Sundays.

The judge adjourned the hearing till the next week, directing all relevant authorities to submit updates on the compliance of the court orders.

Published in Dawn, December 7th, 2024