[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]
The escalating smog crisis in the eastern regions of the country, particularly in the provincial capital Lahore, has resulted in widespread illness among the population. In response, authorities have taken the measure of closing down several cities to mitigate air pollution.
The levels of smog in Lahore, a city with a population of 22 million, have reached hazardous levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching the 500 mark. Consequently, the provincial government has issued orders to close schools, offices, malls, and parks in the affected cities until Sunday.
Read more : Ten Punjab Districts Under Lockdown To Reduce Smog
Under the leadership of Naqvi, the government has opted to implement a lockdown in ten districts of Punjab to address the situation, given the persistent impact of the noxious atmosphere on public health.
For the upcoming weekend, educational institutions in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Multan, Sahiwal, and Sargodha divisions will remain closed. Markets will resume operations at 3 pm, and all types of businesses are required to shut down on Sundays.
In a high-level meeting earlier this week, Chief Minister Naqvi reviewed the situation, acknowledging that Punjab’s capital ranks among the most polluted cities globally. The recurrence of the smog issue during this time of the year has led to it being termed the “fifth season,” posing a significant threat to the lives of many.
The prolonged exposure to the harmful air has resulted in various health complications, including asthma, lung damage, bronchial infections, strokes, heart problems, and overall respiratory distress.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
