LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Tuesday ordered a complete ban on commercial activities on Sundays to curb smog and directed the Punjab government to ensure strict implementation of the deadline of 10pm on wedding halls.

Justice Shahid Karim was hearing the petitions on smog and environmental issues, when Lahore Deputy Commissioner Musa Raza and other officials appeared before the court.

The DC informed the court that a notification had been issued regarding the closure of markets and restaurants by 10pm. He also presented the notification before the court.

The judge observed that issuing a notification was not enough, but it must be implemented strictly. He noted that the purpose of these restrictions was to control smog.

Justice Karim expressed concern that increasing pollution levels were worsening the smog problem.

Wasa’s counsel Mian Irfan Akram informed the court that the sewerage system was being upgraded.

The judge directed the Wasa to submit details and timelines of its ongoing projects by the next hearing.

He ordered that a director-level officer from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must appear at every hearing.

Further proceedings on the petitions will be held on Nov 7.

Published in Dawn, November 5th, 2025