The Environmental Protection Tribunal (EPT) adjourned till September 3, the proceedings in a petition against Alfalah Mini Golf Club (AMGC) for promoting 'Sheesha' (flavourful huqa) which underlines the health hazards caused by the smoke emitted.
The court directed the respondent Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to submit its reply till next date of hearing. The petitioner contended that smoke emitted from the 'Sheesha' is as much as is emitted from an auto-rickshaw and that has much more tobacco in it as compared to a cigarette causing serious risks to both environment and health of the visitors/customers.
The counsel of AMGC Jawad Hassan contended that the emission from the 'Sheesha' did not qualify as an emission under the Pakistan Environment Protection Act. He contended that the petition is filed with malafide intention to harass the respondent and to deprive him of his fundamental right to do lawful business.
He said club is an open place where the free circulation of air reduces the threat of harm from any possible emission of smoke. Earlier, the counsel of PHA, health department and Chief Secretary filed their para-wise comments before the court.
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