Punjab’s Response to Alarming Smog Levels
Punjab is facing a severe air quality crisis, especially in Lahore, where the Air Quality Index (AQI) recently hit 1,165, indicating hazardous conditions. AQI readings across various city areas also remained high, with Phase 8-DHA at 1,156, Syed Maratib Ali Road at 822, and Askari 10 at 813. Other cities such as Multan, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad also recorded dangerous levels.
To tackle this health emergency, Punjab’s senior minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has announced the closure of schools and colleges across 18 districts until November 17. Schools will shift to online classes, and remote work arrangements will apply to 50% of public and private offices. Official meetings in government offices will take place over Zoom, and mask-wearing is now mandatory in public spaces.
Key Measures Taken
- Education: Schools closed in 18 districts, including Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan.
- Remote Work: Half of the workforce in both public and private sectors will work from home.
- Heavy Transport Ban: Ban on heavy vehicles in Lahore from November 8, 2024, to January 31, 2025, under the Environment Protection Act 1997.
- Health Initiatives: Hospitals have set up smog counters and are distributing anti-allergy vaccines; over 900 respiratory cases reported.
Smog-Related Policies and Exemptions
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| School Closures | Educational institutions closed in 18 districts; online classes mandatory. |
| Work-from-Home Policy | 50% remote work for public and private offices. |
| Heavy Transport Ban | Effective in Lahore from Nov 8 to Jan 31; exempted vehicles include ambulances and supply trucks. |
| Mandatory Masks | Required for all citizens, monitored by Safe City cameras. |
| Health Measures | Smog counters and vaccines provided; 900+ respiratory cases due to smog. |
Raising Awareness and Diplomatic Initiatives
Minister Aurangzeb also urged public awareness on smog prevention, anticipating a rise in AQI in the coming days. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz plans to engage India in climate diplomacy for a joint action plan against cross-border pollution.
These measures reflect Punjab’s urgent efforts to protect public health amidst rising smog and pollution levels, focusing on keeping essential services available while enforcing strict regulations to curb pollution.