Lahore High Court dissatisfied with anti-smog measures, orders crackdown on pollution-emitting vehicles

By our Staff reporter Muhammad Shahzad

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has expressed serious dissatisfaction with the government’s ongoing measures to combat smog and has directed authorities to take immediate action against vehicles emitting smoke across the provincial capital.

Justice Shahid Karim, while hearing a petition on smog control, voiced deep concern over the worsening air quality and the failure to enforce restaurant operating hours as previously ordered. The court noted that despite repeated directives, the administration has not taken effective steps to curb pollution.

During the proceedings, the court summoned Deputy Commissioner Lahore Musa Raza to appear in person, stressing that enforcement must begin without delay. Justice Karim ordered strict monitoring and action against polluting vehicles particularly on Ring Road, Multan Road, and the Motorway.

The judge further announced that the court would now hear the smog case on a daily basis to ensure compliance.

Justice Shahid Karim remarked, “This court’s actions are not against anyone — they are meant to guide the government. The court has been working on smog reduction for seven years, and yet 70 percent of the city’s pollution comes from transport. Instead of blaming others, we must correct ourselves.”

Expressing skepticism about the use of anti-smog guns, Justice Karim questioned their effectiveness, asking:

> “Please tell us, what real benefit have these anti-smog guns provided?”

The Lahore High Court’s directions come as Lahore continues to rank among the world’s most polluted cities, with citizens facing hazardous air quality levels on a daily basis.