LHC orders halt to plaza projects near historic Sheranwala, Taxali gates

Lahore High Court expressed strong displeasure over tree cutting in the Lahore city and ordered to stop hawking plaza projects near Sheranwala and Taxali Gate, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Friday.

Advocate General Punjab and Director General (DG) PHA summoned for next hearing on February 2.

Show cause notice was issued to Vice Chancellor Punjab University and Registrar Punjab University for contempt of court.

The court ordered that an SP ranked officer to investigate the matter of tree cutting in Punjab University.

Justice Shahid Karim remarked that DG PHA should be transferred to another place if he cannot save the city’s trees. 

Justice Shahid Karim heard a case regarding smog prevention.

Member Environmental Commission submitted a report on tree cutting in the city.

Member Environment Commission informed the court 45 trees were cut in the area of ​​Punjab University and a case has been registered against the responsible persons. 

Is VC not aware of this situation? Justice Shahid Karim inquired.

The court remarked that the DG PHA should have taken immediate action in this regard and action should be taken against all the university officers involved in the tree cutting.

A case should be filed against them in the anti-corruption department, Justice Shahid Karim remarked.

The role of PHA is regrettable, Justice Shahid Karim remarked.

The DG PHA should have contacted the Vice Chancellor himself on the issue of cutting of trees, the court remarked.

Trees have been cut near the race course to build a police officer's house, lawyer told the court.

I am keeping the case for Monday, a detailed report should be submitted, Justice Shahid Karim directed.

There is no mechanism to transplant a hundred-year-old tree at Sheeranwala Gate, Member Environmental Commission submitted.

A law should be made to protect trees, Member Civil Society suggested.

Making laws is the job of Parliament, Justice Shahid Karim remarked.

The court adjourned the hearing of case till February 2.