The Punjab government has partially lifted the lockdown imposed in Lahore and eight other districts due to severe smog. Markets in these areas will be allowed to remain open on Thursday/Friday, while educational institutions and offices will remain closed until Sunday.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an advisory warning of the possibility of smog levels reaching dangerous levels in central and southern Punjab next week. Gujranwala, Multan, Lahore, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Sargodha, DG Khan, and Sahiwal are among the districts likely to be affected.
Citizens are advised to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when going out, and stay informed about local air quality levels. They should also drink plenty of water to protect their respiratory systems from the harmful effects of smog.
DIG Operations Lahore Ali NasirRizvi has directed police officers to strictly enforce the smart lockdown measures.
He has criticized police officers for remaining indoors until 10:00 AM, stating that “if they remain Romeos in the houses till 10:00 in the morning, how will Lahore work?”
Under the smart lockdown, only emergency services will be allowed to operate. All other businesses and activities will remain closed.
The NDMA has also advised installing 50 large and 170 small bridges in the city to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. Additionally, the number of occupants in vehicles will be checked to ensure compliance with section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
It is worth noting that the incidence of asthma in Lahore is increasing by an average of 10,000 cases per day due to dust pollution and fog. The caretaker Punjab government has taken steps to address this issue by closing educational institutions and offices in six districts, including Lahore, from Thursday to Sunday.
