In response to mounting concerns over hazardous air quality and the intensifying smog crisis in Lahore, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued stringent directives mandating the reduction in business hours across the Punjab capital.

LHC’s Justice Shahid Karim issued the order during the hearing of petitions lodged by concerned citizens, emphasizing the need for urgent action to combat the city’s deteriorating air quality. The court’s decision entails the mandatory closure of all trade activities by 10 pm daily, intending to mitigate pollution levels.

The directive directed the Lahore Chief City Police Officer (CCPO) to ensure strict compliance with the imposed business closure timings. Furthermore, the court instructed various administrative officials to initiate immediate measures to address the escalating environmental pollution.

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In an effort to tackle the smog crisis, the LHC also directed the city administration to implement a two-day work-from-home policy for private institutions and banks. Additionally, industry units identified as contributing to environmental pollution were ordered to be sealed promptly.

Despite the enforcement of stringent measures, including the closure of markets and restrictions on vehicular movement along the city’s main artery, Mall Road, Lahore, home to over 22 million people, continues to grapple with hazardous air quality.

The recent move by the Lahore High Court follows the Punjab government’s decision to shut down schools, colleges, and universities for three days in response to the escalating smog crisis, highlighting the severity of the situation.

The judicial intervention aims to address the pressing issue of environmental pollution and the deteriorating air quality in Lahore, urging immediate and decisive actions to safeguard public health amidst this critical phase.