the Lahore High Court (LHC) has delivered a resolute directive, commanding the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) to heighten fines imposed on both domestic and commercial consumers engaged in the indiscriminate use of clean water. The Court, led by Justice Shahid Karim, issued this order during proceedings related to smog-related cases.
Stricter Measures for Industrial Units
Justice Karim’s order mandates a minimum fine of Rs.1 million for industrial units found guilty of repeated violations, signaling a robust stance against environmental transgressions. This move emphasizes the Court’s commitment to curbing activities contributing to pollution.
Penalties for Wasteful Water Use
In alignment with the Court’s directives, commercial and domestic users now face escalated fines of Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 10,000, respectively, for wasteful water practices. This underscores the urgency of responsible water consumption and the legal consequences for those who flout conservation norms.
Sealing of Polluting Factories
Justice Karim has further called for the immediate sealing of factories found to be polluting the air. The matter of unsealing these factories has been entrusted to a judicial commission, emphasizing the gravity of environmental protection.
The Court’s decision stems from revelations that smoke-emitting factories were unsealed by their owners, allegedly in collusion with officials. To address this, environmental officers have been cautioned about potential consequences for violations, and legal action has been initiated against them in line with the Court’s orders.
Judicial Scrutiny and Accusations of Corruption
The judicial commission involved in overseeing environmental compliance has accused officials of accepting bribes, shedding light on potential corruption within regulatory bodies. Moreover, concerns were raised about factories engaging in polluting activities during nighttime, adding a layer of complexity to the enforcement of environmental regulations.
Renovation Work Scrutinized
Even the Lahore Development Authority’s (LDA) involvement has not escaped scrutiny, as the Court expressed dissatisfaction over extended renovation work in the city canal’s underpasses. Justice Karim remarked that the underpasses’ embellishments were unprecedented and drew attention to what he deemed excessive measures.
This decisive move by the Lahore High Court not only reflects a commitment to environmental preservation but also signals a broader effort to ensure compliance, transparency, and accountability. As the legal landscape responds to evolving environmental challenges, this case serves as a testament to the judiciary’s pivotal role in safeguarding natural resources and promoting responsible civic conduct. Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding legal narrative.
