Markets in Punjab ordered to close at 8pm to combat smog issue

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has mandated that all markets close by 8:00 PM each day and remain closed on Sundays, aiming to address the serious smog issue affecting the city.

Justice Shahid Karim, while issuing the directive, noted that despite numerous hearings and appeals for action, effective steps to manage the smog problem are still absent. He expressed a wish to avoid issuing orders that are unfeasible to carry out.

This decision comes after various government departments presented performance reports related to efforts to mitigate smog in front of Justice Karim.

The court instructed authorities to limit vehicle access to motorways and the Ring Road, in addition to imposing a total ban on the entry of trucks and trailers into the city.

The court pointed out that trucks and trailers significantly contribute to smog and pollution in the environment. It ordered the placement of police officers to manage heavy traffic.

Justice Karim voiced his discontent, highlighting that the court has consistently urged the government to take meaningful action regarding smog control during every session.

The court underscored that emissions from heavy vehicles are the main source of pollution and questioned the efficiency of the existing measures.

The judge inquired why fines of Rs50,000 for buses are inadequate to enhance compliance and how vehicles lacking fitness certificates are permitted on the roads.