LAHORE – The Punjab government has imposed a health emergency in Lahore and Multan due to the deteriorating situation of air pollution.
Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb also announced imposition of three-day lockdown in both cities. She said a complete lockdown will be enforced from Friday to Sunday, adding that there will also be a ban on construction activities.
She also stated that housing societies should not be developed on agricultural land, and there should be at least a 10-year policy for dealing with smog.
Earlier in the day, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has also suggested that a long-term policy be created for smog prevention.
The provincial government has cancelled the leaves of hospitals’ staff as smog is causing spread of various diseases.
She advised citizens to avoid going outside on motorcycles unless it’s an emergency and to wear masks.
She further said that the government will review the data by Wednesday, adding that smog has now turned into a health crisis.
The Punjab government is taking all possible measures to tackle smog, including a 10-year policy for its prevention. Various government departments are working day and night to control smog, and brick kilns not complying with zig-zag technology are being demolished.
She said restaurants will be allowed to operate until 4 PM, but take-out will be permitted until 8 PM.
