LAHORE – The intensity of smog in Punjab has significantly decreased, although the air quality in Lahore and Multan remained heavily polluted.
Lahore, the provincial capital, continued to rank second globally for air pollution, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 252 recorded.
Meanwhile, in Multan, known as the City of Saints, the pollution level has reached a concerning 286.
As the smog situation improves, the educational institutions have reopened in all divisions of Punjab, except Lahore and Multan.
However, the Environment Protection Department has issued guidelines for the students and teachers, mandating the use of face masks on school premises.
The restrictions on outdoor sports and other extracurricular activities remain in place.
Besides it, with the reduction in smog intensity, certain restrictions have been eased. The hotels and restaurants across the province are now permitted to remain open until 10 PM, with dine-in and takeaway services available until that time.
There are no restrictions on home delivery services.
The authorities urged the citizens to take precautions against the ongoing pollution, particularly in Lahore and Multan, where the air quality remains hazardous.
