LAHORE – The Punjab government has announced an extension in closure of all public and private schools for another week as no respite for public due to worsening smog situation.
Senior Minister Punjab Marriyum Aurangzeb made the announcement in a press conference, adding that schools will remain closed for another week. It means the schools would reopen on November 25 as the provincial authorities have already announced the closure of educational institutions till November 17. She added that universities will hold online classes.
The Punjab government has imposed a health emergency in Lahore and Multan due to the worsening smog situation, she said.
A complete lockdown will be imposed in both cities for three days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), the minister said. Additionally, a ban will be placed on construction activities in both cities from Saturday.
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. The Lahore High Court has also suggested that a long-term policy be created for smog prevention.
Smog has severely affected flight operations in Punjab, with 11 flights canceled and many delayed. The smog situation has not improved, and Lahore remains one of the most polluted cities in the world today.
She said leaves of all health staff have been canceled, and relevant departments have been instructed to ensure an adequate supply of medicines. She advised citizens to avoid going outside on motorcycles unless it’s an emergency and to wear masks.
More to follow…
