LHC orders to close schools on Saturdays in smog-hit Punjab districts. In a significant development aimed at combatting the escalating issue of smog in Punjab, Justice Shahid Karim of the Lahore High Court has issued a series of directives, compelling the government to take immediate action.
The judge, presiding over a hearing concerning the measures undertaken by the Punjab government to mitigate air pollution, delivered a set of stringent orders to address the crisis.
Foremost among these directives is the mandate to close all schools and colleges in the province on Saturdays. This move appears to be a proactive step to curtail outdoor activities, thereby reducing the public’s exposure to hazardous air quality levels.
Simultaneously, Justice Karim has urged the implementation of a work-from-home policy for two days each week, potentially as a means to decrease vehicular traffic and human activity contributing to the region’s air pollution.
The Lahore commissioner faced stern criticism from Justice Karim, who rebuked the official for purportedly falling short in effectively controlling the smog situation.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the commissioner’s performance, the judge highlighted the apparent disparity between promises made and tangible results on the ground.
Furthermore, the Lahore High Court judge ordered the removal of the Deputy Commissioner of Sheikhupura, signaling a decisive response to perceived inadequacies in addressing the smog crisis in that specific region.
Justice Karim’s concerns extended beyond Lahore, expressing worry about the severe conditions in Jhang, Khanewal, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, and Bahawalnagar.
Of notable concern to the judge was the prevalence of crop residue burning, a significant contributor to air pollution.
Expressing disappointment over shared videos depicting such practices, Justice Karim underscored the need for comprehensive measures to tackle this aspect of the crisis.
The directives issued by Justice Shahid Karim reflect a robust judicial response to the critical air pollution situation in Punjab.
They encompass both immediate actions, such as the closure of educational institutions and the implementation of work-from-home policies, as well as a stringent stance against perceived governance shortcomings.
As LHC orders to close schools on Saturdays in smog-hit Punjab districts, these directives underscore the urgency and gravity of the situation, signaling a call for decisive and immediate action from the authorities.
