The Punjab government has implemented sweeping restrictions across four divisions in response to an alarming increase in smog levels, closing public parks, zoos, museums, historical sites, playlands and sports venues in Lahore, Gujranwala, Multan, and Faisalabad until November 17.
The closures come as part of emergency measures to address the hazardous air quality that has gripped the region, according to a notification issued by the Directorate General of Environment.
The directive states that violation of these measures could lead to fines and arrests under environmental protection laws. The environment department stated that these actions are part of the Punjab government’s ongoing anti-smog operations.
Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has urged people, especially parents, not to leave their homes and even stop their children from getting out. “Schools being off doesn’t mean it’s a picnic,” Aurangzeb stressed, urging people to protect the lives of those around them by following precautionary measures.
Alongside these closures, authorities have intensified crackdowns on sources of pollution. In Lahore, 47 vehicles emitting excessive smoke were seized, and 31 more were fined with penalties amounting to Rs550,000. Private institutions have also faced inspections, and many food stalls and commercial outlets have been sealed for non-compliance with environmental laws.
Meanwhile, water-spraying operations are ongoing across Lahore in an attempt to reduce airborne pollutants. The public is also urged to wear masks and limit outdoor exposure until air quality improves.
Smog to worsen next week
The latest data shows that air pollution has reached alarming levels in Pakistan with seven cities leading the ranking of worst cities in terms of environmental pollution. Multan records the highest air quality index (AQI) score of 2,135, followed by Lahore at 676. Other cities, including Peshawar, Islamabad, Haripur, Rawalpindi, and Karachi, are also suffering from dangerous levels of pollution.
Meteorologists have forecast smog conditions to worsen over the coming week, with relatively low wind speeds of 11km/h around Lahore and 7km/h near Multan.
Earlier today, the Lahore High Court issued new orders in a series of measures aimed at controlling the rising smog levels in Punjab.
Justice Shahid Karim, presiding over a hearing on citizen petitions for smog control, directed that all markets in the province must close by 8pm, with complete closures on Sundays.
The court emphasised that smoke-emitting vehicles and heavy trucks entering Lahore and surrounding areas are a major source of pollution. Consequently, the court ordered a ban on smoke-emitting vehicles on motorways and ring roads. It also urged the provincial administration to restrict the entry of trucks and trawlers into the city, calling them are a major cause of smog and environmental pollution.
