In response to heighten smog levels, the Punjab Govt has declared a health emergency in Lahore and Multan to address the escalating air quality crisis affecting the region.
Senior province minister Maryam Aurangzeb, in a press briefing, announced that both cities would observe a complete lockdown on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. She also stated that all construction activities in these areas would be suspended from this Saturday until the following Sunday to mitigate pollution sources.
Aurangzeb detailed further steps to strict action the crisis, including establishing health desks at hospitals, canceling all staff leaves, and instructing health departments to ensure ample medicine supplies. The senior minister also urged residents to refrain from using motorcycles unless necessary and to wear masks when outside.
Maryam Aurangzeb explained that the smog had intensified into a public health crisis and that the government would review pollution data by Wednesday to determine any additional interventions. She emphasized that Punjab’s government is committed to controlling smog, implementing a new 10_year plan for sustainable air quality management.
She further added that various government departments are actively working to reduce smog levels, with traditional brick kilns that haven’t adopted zigzag technology being shut down to control emissions. Aurangzeb clarified that controlling smog requires a long-term approach; however, a three-month emergency plan with urgent steps has been set in motion.
Additionally, the minister announced that schools will remain closed for another week due to the hazardous air quality, while colleges and universities will conduct classes online. She said,restaurants can remain open until 4 PM, with takeout service available until 8 PM to limit public exposure during high smog hours.
