Lahore: In a decisive move aimed at combating rising smog and environmental pollution, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has ordered a complete ban on all commercial activities across Lahore every Sunday. The court also directed strict enforcement of the 10 p.m. closure for marriage halls and restaurants, emphasizing that environmental protection measures must be implemented with full seriousness.

Justice Shahid Karim issued the directive while hearing multiple petitions concerning environmental pollution and smog control. During the hearing, the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore, Musa Raza, presented a notification mandating that all markets, shopping centers, and restaurants close by 10 p.m. every day. The notification was issued as part of a broader government effort to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion that contribute heavily to Lahore’s worsening air quality.

Justice Karim, however, made it clear that issuing notifications alone was not enough. “The purpose is not merely to release orders,” he remarked. “The objective is to ensure strict compliance with these restrictions, as they are essential to controlling the smog crisis that worsens every winter.”

The court observed that unchecked commercial activities, late-night traffic, and excessive construction work have significantly contributed to deteriorating air conditions in the provincial capital. Lahore, which frequently ranks among the most polluted cities in the world, has seen rising levels of particulate matter, resulting in visibility problems, respiratory illnesses, and school closures in recent years.

During the proceedings, the Member of the Environmental Commission informed the court that the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) had ongoing excavation work near Khayaban-e-Firdousi, which was causing traffic congestion and further air pollution. In response, WASA’s Legal Advisor, Irfan Akram, explained that the work was part of an initiative to upgrade Lahore’s outdated sewerage system.

Justice Shahid Karim directed WASA to submit a detailed timeline for all ongoing infrastructure projects at the next hearing. He emphasized that while developmental work is important, it must be managed in a way that does not worsen environmental degradation or public inconvenience. “Development should not come at the cost of citizens’ health and clean air,” the judge said.

The court’s order specifies that all commercial establishments, including markets, shopping plazas, restaurants, and retail outlets, must remain closed throughout Sunday. The measure is intended to give the city a “rest day” from high traffic and emissions, allowing a measurable reduction in air pollutants. Environmental experts have long advocated such weekly breaks, arguing that reduced human activity even for one day can help lower pollution levels temporarily and raise public awareness about sustainable urban living.

Furthermore, the court reiterated its earlier directive that all marriage halls must cease operations by 10 p.m. The judge observed that late-night wedding functions contribute to traffic jams and generator emissions, both of which exacerbate smog formation. “No exemptions will be granted,” Justice Karim warned, “and violators will face penalties for contempt of court.”

To ensure accountability, the Lahore High Court has ordered that a Director-level officer from the Environmental Protection Department must appear in person at every hearing to present compliance reports. These reports must detail steps taken to enforce commercial closures, construction management, and emission control. The next hearing has been scheduled for November 7, during which the court will review the effectiveness of the Sunday closure policy and evaluate whether pollution levels have decreased.

Legal analysts say this decision underscores the judiciary’s growing frustration with bureaucratic delays and poor enforcement of environmental policies. Over the past few years, the court has repeatedly issued directives for smog mitigation, including the regulation of brick kilns, the control of industrial emissions, and the phasing out of old vehicles. However, progress has remained slow, prompting stronger judicial intervention.

Environmental activists have welcomed the ruling, describing it as a “necessary and bold step” toward sustainable urban governance. “The situation in Lahore is alarming,” said a local environmentalist. “The air quality index often exceeds hazardous levels, putting millions of lives at risk. This weekly shutdown might not solve everything, but it’s a start toward behavioral change and government accountability.”

Traders’ associations, however, expressed concern over the decision, arguing that small businesses already face economic hardships due to inflation and energy costs. “A full-day closure every Sunday will affect our livelihoods,” said one shopkeeper from Liberty Market. “The government should find a balance between environmental protection and economic survival.”

In response, the court maintained that public health must take precedence over business interests. “Clean air is a basic right of every citizen,” Justice Karim noted, adding that the government should explore economic incentives or compensations for small traders if needed, but environmental policies cannot be compromised.

The Lahore administration has been instructed to conduct awareness campaigns about the importance of reducing pollution, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary vehicle use and to adopt eco-friendly practices. Officials have also been directed to intensify inspections of industries, construction sites, and fuel stations to ensure compliance with environmental laws.

Experts suggest that if properly enforced, the Sunday commercial ban could serve as a pilot model for other major cities in Punjab, such as Faisalabad, Multan, and Rawalpindi, which also face similar pollution challenges.