LHC orders markets to close by 8pm, Sundays off

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has taken bold action to combat the alarming rise in fog and smog in Punjab, ordering markets to close by 8 pm and remain completely shut on Sundays.

Justice Shahid Karim emphasized the need for urgent action, citing Multan’s hazardous air quality index (AQI), which has reached emergency levels.

To reduce air pollution, the court directed authorities to prohibit trucks, trailers, and heavy vehicles from entering the city, as their emissions significantly contribute to smog and pollution.

Dolphin Police and traffic personnel have been instructed to monitor and control heavy traffic in Lahore. The court also expressed frustration over smoke-emitting buses still operating without fitness certificates, suggesting a Rs. 50,000 fine for violators.

Additional measures include implementing a work-from-home policy and banning smoke-emitting vehicles from motorways and ring roads. Justice Karim acknowledged that these measures won’t resolve the smog issue immediately but expects improvements over five years.

He drew inspiration from China’s success in reducing pollution, stressing the need for consistent efforts to tackle this crisis effectively

Earlier, the Lahore High Court ordered all marriage halls to be closed at 10 pm and no wedding function will be allowed after the given time. These strict measures are believed to help combat smog in the provincial capital.