A landmark case has been filed at the Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday by a three-year-old girl, Amal Sekhera, challenging the government’s failure to address the escalating air pollution crisis in the region. The petition, filed through her lawyer, seeks justice not only for the young petitioner but also for her peers, classmates, and future generations who are suffering due to worsening air quality.
Amal’s petition highlights the severe impact of air pollution on vulnerable groups, particularly children and the elderly. The thick smog blanketing Punjab has led to advisories recommending that children remain indoors, further underscoring the urgent need for action.
Under Article 99-A of the Constitution, the petition asserts that the government is constitutionally obligated to provide citizens with a clean and healthy environment. Amal’s lawyer argued that the Punjab government’s inaction is a direct violation of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. The petition calls for the Punjab government to take immediate steps against vehicles emitting harmful smoke and other contributors to the pollution crisis.
The court raised a key question about whether a three-year-old can file a case in the High Court. In response, Amal’s lawyer clarified that any citizen, regardless of age, who is directly affected by governmental actions, has the right to approach the court for relief. Justice Javed Hassan issued notices to the Secretary of Environment and other relevant authorities, directing them to provide a response to the petition.
Punjab Schools Shut Amid Smog Crisis
In related news, the Punjab government has ordered the closure of all schools from primary to 12th grade until November 17 due to the continuing smog crisis. Senior Punjab Minister Maryam Aurangzeb announced the decision, highlighting that high schools in major cities including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan will remain closed, while 50% of government and private office staff will work remotely. Official meetings will also be held online during this period.
The closure of schools and shift to remote work comes as smog levels in Punjab continue to rise, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore surpassing 1,000. Minister Aurangzeb linked the smog crisis to the burning of crop residue, a significant contributor to air pollution in the region. She also noted ongoing violations of the plastic bag ban, which is exacerbating the situation.
Despite the school closures, many parents continue to take their children to malls and entertainment venues, prompting the government to mandate the use of masks in affected areas. Aurangzeb further stated that winds from Rajasthan and other parts of India have intensified the smog in cities like Multan and Gujranwala. She warned that the smog is expected to persist for at least another 10 days.
The situation remains critical, with the public and government facing growing pressure to address the air quality crisis and protect citizens from its harmful effects.
