The Lahore High Court (LHC) issued a landmark ruling on Friday, imposing a ban on the entry of trucks and other heavy vehicles into Lahore, citing their significant role in exacerbating the city’s ongoing smog crisis. The court’s decision comes as Lahore grapples with unprecedented levels of air pollution, which recently earned the city the dubious title of the world’s most polluted for 48 hours straight.
Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) reached alarming heights, surpassing 1,000 in some areas—levels deemed hazardous to public health. The city’s dense smog has blanketed major districts of Punjab, affecting the health and safety of residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Punjab government has already taken precautionary steps, including a ban on public access to parks, zoos, playgrounds, and museums. The restrictions, which apply from November 8 to 17, are aimed at reducing exposure to harmful pollutants.
The court’s order focuses on the movement of heavy vehicles, particularly trucks laden with construction material. After 11pm, these vehicles have been identified as major contributors to the emission of smog and are largely unregulated in terms of their environmental impact. The court instructed law enforcement agencies, including the police, traffic police, and the Dolphin Force, to impound vehicles found emitting hazardous smog. Furthermore, the court directed the transport department to conduct thorough checks on the fitness and maintenance of heavy vehicles, with a particular focus on ensuring that only roadworthy vehicles are allowed to operate.
The ruling also extends to commercial spaces and market operations. The LHC directed the Lahore commissioner to convene a meeting to discuss the closure of commercial establishments by 8pm over the next 15 days. Additionally, it ordered that markets be closed on Sundays during this period to help reduce pollution levels.
To address the situation on highways, the court instructed motorway police stationed at toll plazas to inspect all entering vehicles, prohibiting the entry of those emitting excessive smoke. The relevant departments are also tasked with impounding vehicles that fail to meet environmental standards.
In an effort to explore innovative solutions, the LHC proposed limiting large public gatherings, particularly marriage functions, and capping the number of attendees. The court requested a report on the progress of these measures by the next hearing on November 11.
As Lahore continues to struggle with the environmental crisis, the LHC’s ruling signals a significant step towards mitigating the impact of smog and improving the city’s air quality for its residents.
