Muhammad Usman
The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday heard a petition against government’s decision to shutdown brick kilns to address smog issue. Justice Ayisha A. Malik while hearing arguments on the maintainability of the plea directed the counsel to continue more arguments on the matter tomorrow.
The court, however, refused the plea for issuing restraining orders against closure of brick kilns.
“It is our collective responsibility to take steps for addressing the smog problem,” Justice Ayisha Malik remarked
“Several brick kiln owners have submitted affidavits that they would close their businesses until December 31,” Justice Malik said. “How can you oppose those who had stated on oath for shutdown of brick kilns,” the court asked. The counsel of brick kiln owners argued that the government has issued notification for closure of all brick kilns, which will affect the employment. The smoke produced by automobiles, brick kilns and stubble burning in agriculture areas converts into smog during the month of November with falling temperature.