The Lahore High Court on Thursday indicated it may seal factories manufacturing Qingqi rickshaws as part of a broader crackdown on environmental pollution and traffic-related issues in the provincial capital.
The remarks came during a hearing on petitions related to the government’s measures against smog. Justice Shahid Karim expressed frustration over traffic congestion caused by ongoing protests on Mall Road, stating, “Protest and dialogue do not mean the entire city should come to a standstill.”
“Demonstrations have been ongoing on the streets for days. Speak to the protestors and find an alternative location for them,” Justice Karim told the Assistant Advocate General. “Blocking a single road is impacting traffic across the city,” he added.
Justice Karim also highlighted the growing impact of climate change, noting that Punjab experienced three extreme weather events in April alone, intense heat, heavy rainfall, and hailstorms. “We must find a long-term solution to this,” he remarked.
During the proceedings, Lahore’s Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Azhar Waheed presented a report regarding action against street beggars, emphasising the need for dedicated legislation. Justice Karim agreed, saying, “The court has long stressed the necessity of permanent legal reforms.”
CTO Waheed also informed the court that a request to ban Qingqi rickshaws had been forwarded to the Home Department. In response, Justice Karim stated that the court would temporarily halt licensing for Qingqi rickshaw manufacturers.
“Manufacturers must ensure compliance with transport regulations within three months or face closure,” he warned. CTO Waheed added that Qingqi rickshaws have contributed to several fatal accidents. “These vehicles are causing deaths,” he said.
Justice Karim instructed the Punjab government’s counsel to issue a three-month notice to rickshaw manufacturers. “There must be a ban on illegal Qingqi rickshaws. A summary should be sent to the Chief Minister next week,” he ordered.
The court also noted that increased traffic due to protests worsens air pollution. “Just 10 minutes of gridlock can significantly raise pollution levels. With rising heatwaves expected in the coming days, the situation must be improved,” Justice Karim said.
CTO Waheed reported that 10 people had died in Qingqi-related accidents. “It is critical to bring these vehicles under control,” Justice Karim concluded.
The court emphasised that without immediate regulation, Qingqi rickshaws would spread unchecked across the city. “If necessary, factories producing them should be shut down,” it said, directing the government to submit a summary to the Chief Minister and report back at the next hearing.
The court adjourned the proceedings until 25 April.
