Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has announced a series of emergency measures in response to the escalating smog crisis in the province, particularly in Lahore and Multan, where air quality indices (AQI) have reached hazardous levels, with Lahore’s AQI hitting an alarming 2800.
Key actions include the declaration of a health emergency in both cities and the imposition of strict measures aimed at curbing smog and its health impact. The minister stressed the need for citizens to cooperate and stay indoors over the weekend, urging the private sector to enforce mask mandates and highlighting the role of the media and public figures in raising awareness about the dangers of smog.
Key Measures:
- Shutdown of Brick Kilns and Plants: All brick kilns and furnace-based plants in Lahore and Multan will remain closed from Friday to reduce emissions.
- Weekend Lockdown: A lockdown will be enforced on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday if the situation doesn’t improve by mid-week.
- Restaurant Restrictions: Dining-in at restaurants will be allowed only until 4 pm, after which only take-away services will be permitted.
- School Closures and Online Learning: Schools, colleges, and universities across Punjab (except Murree) will extend their holidays and shift to online learning.
- Construction Ban: All construction activities in Lahore and Multan will be banned starting Friday.
- Hospital Operations: Paramedical staff holidays have been canceled, and hospital OPDs will operate until 8 pm to manage the increased number of smog-related health cases.
- Environmental Projects: E-bikes and electric buses will be introduced in Lahore as part of ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and promote eco-friendly transportation.
Also Read: Punjab Governor Declares Smog Emergency
Aurangzeb further emphasized that over 40,000 smog-affected individuals have been treated in hospitals and encouraged citizens to limit outdoor activities, especially on motorcycles, and to wear masks. She highlighted the government’s long-term smog policy, which includes transitioning brick kilns to cleaner technologies and promoting cleaner farming practices to reduce stubble burning.
Additionally, she pointed out that smog is a cross-border issue affecting both India and Pakistan, and both countries must collaborate to tackle this crisis. If the situation does not improve by mid-week, further restrictive measures, including a complete lockdown over the weekend, could be implemented.
Aurangzeb concluded by urging collective efforts, stating that countries that have successfully reduced smog did so through unified cooperation and strict measures, calling on everyone to act urgently for the health and safety of the citizens.
