LAHORE – Authorities in smog-hit Punjab announced new measures including work from home policy for office workers as severe air pollution is affecting millions.
In a bid to address worsening air pollution, Maryam Nawaz-led provincial government announced the work-from-home policy for both public and private offices in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan divisions.
Under the the new directions, offices are advised to work with 50percent in-person workforce. The move is aimed at cutting volume of daily commuting, which contributes significantly to pollution levels, and limiting exposure to the hazardous smog that has enveloped the region.
The provincial government claimed multi-pronged strategy to save citizens from toxic smog including shutting down schools. This temporary measure will help ease the pressure on air quality by reducing traffic congestion and lowering emissions from vehicles, particularly in the most polluted areas.
Lahore Smog Crisis
Punjab’s capital city is facing record-high air pollution, overwhelming hospitals with respiratory cases.
Doctors report widespread coughing and eye irritation among residents, many of whom are not wearing face masks. In mid-week, Lahore’s air quality index exceeded 1,100, far above the hazardous threshold.
A full lockdown could be imposed if people don’t follow safety measures, the minister said. In response to the pollution crisis, the government has banned unfiltered barbecuing, restricted motorized rickshaws, and set a 10 p.m. curfew for wedding halls. Additionally, officials are considering artificial rainfall to combat the smog.
