Lahore High Court Raises Concern Over Traffic Disruptions During PSL Matches

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has expressed serious concern over prolonged road closures and traffic disruptions during matches of the Pakistan Super League, warning that the situation is contributing to worsening environmental conditions in the city.
During a hearing related to smog control petitions, Justice Shahid Karim observed that while the PSL is held annually, the repeated suspension of traffic for extended periods during team movements is unacceptable.
“Traffic is halted for hours on multiple occasions, which cannot be ignored,” the judge remarked while hearing petitions filed by citizen Haroon Farooq and others.
The court linked traffic congestion and road closures to rising vehicle emissions, noting that such disruptions significantly contribute to smog levels. It warned that repeated halts in traffic flow increase fuel consumption and emissions, undermining year-round efforts to control pollution.
During the proceedings, the Parks and Horticulture Authority submitted regulations concerning tree transplantation. The court directed the Judicial Water Commission to review these rules and propose improvements where necessary.
The bench also highlighted environmental concerns related to the plantation of non-native tree species, stating they may be harmful to Lahore’s ecosystem. A report on tree cutting at Punjab University was presented, indicating that new trees had been planted in areas where earlier trees were removed following court directives.
Justice Karim further cited global research, including findings from the University of Chicago, warning that rising temperatures could significantly increase mortality rates worldwide. He noted projections suggesting that up to one in three deaths in Pakistan could be linked to climate-related factors, with Punjab expected to be among the most affected regions.
The court also referred to international data indicating that Pakistan recorded some of the highest levels of environmental pollution globally in the previous year.
Emphasizing that vehicular emissions remain a major source of pollution, the court said repeated traffic stoppages during PSL events are aggravating the smog crisis. It urged authorities to take immediate and effective measures to address the issue.
Additionally, the court directed that guidance be sought from the World Wide Fund for Nature regarding tree plantation policies.
The hearing was adjourned after the court sought implementation reports from all relevant government departments for the next proceedings.