The Punjab government on Friday allowed markets in eight districts to open on Friday, says an amended notification issued by the Department of Primary Healthcare Punjab.
According to the revised notification, markets including shopping malls will open on Friday (today), while they would remain closed on Saturday and Sunday. The decision would be applicable to Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura and Kasur. Likewise, according to the notification, the decision will also apply to Gujranwala, Narowal, Hafizabad, Sialkot, shopping malls and markets will open as usual on Friday. Restaurants, cinemas and gyms will also remain open today.
Lahore, renowned for its persistent battle against smog and high pollution levels, experienced a significant shift in its atmospheric conditions as rain showers doused the city, leading to a remarkable reduction in air pollution. The early morning rain swiftly transformed the city’s skyline, ushering in clearer, fresher air.
The provincial capital faced an air pollution index of over 500, ranking it as the first most polluted city in the world. However, the subsequent rainfall alleviated the pollution concerns, swiftly pushing Lahore down the rankings to a more favorable position.
Lahore has now climbed to the ninth position in the ranking of most polluted cities. Rainfall was widespread across various areas, including Gulberg, Garden Town, Iqbal Town, Multan Road, ThokarNiazBaig, Jail Road, Mall Road, Johar Town, Canal Road, and Raiwind Road, accompanied by thunder and lightning.
The diversity in rain intensity varied from heavy downpours to light showers.
The pollution ratio, which had initially reached 134, also experienced a substantial decline due to the rainfall. However, specific areas, like Johar Town, showed an air quality index hitting a high of 293. Conversely, various other parts of the city have seen a drop in the air pollution rate, falling below the 200 mark.
The weather, post-rain, turned pleasantly cool, offering a reprieve from the usual smoggy and polluted air that had engulfed Lahore in recent days.
The collective impact of this weather phenomenon has not only reduced pollution levels but also brought relief to residents, allowing them to enjoy a much-needed break from the persistent smog that had plagued the city.
