Pakistan

Punjab declares health emergency, three-day lockdown in smog-hit Multan, Lahore

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Digital Desk

2 years ago

LAHORE: As Punjab grapples with a worsening smog situation, the Punjab government on Friday declared a “health emergency” in the worst smog-hit Lahore and Multan in an effort to mitigate air pollution.

The provincial capital remained the most polluted major city in the world on Friday with the average air quality index recorded at “hazardous” 637 points. While, the AQI reading in Multan reached 810 in the morning today, making it the most polluted among Pakistani cities.

Addressing a press conference in Lahore today, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said “At the moment, the smog [crisis] has turned into a health crisis.”

Considering the severe situation, Aurangzeb announced that a full lockdown would be enforced in both Multan and Lahore on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, adding that the government will make a further decision next Wednesday.

“The construction activities in the two cities will be banned from this Saturday until next Sunday to reduce further pollution,” the provincial minister added.

Additionally, Marriyum announced a further extension of school closures in smog-hit areas across the province, except Murree, for another week due to the hazardous air quality. “Colleges and universities will switch to online classes to ensure the safety of students.”

Minister, in a press conference, also announced new operating hours for the restaurants in Lahore and Multan, allowing dining in until 4 pm and offering only takeaway service till 8 pm.

Discussing the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) call for a long-term smog control policy, She said that the Punjab government has made a 10-year plan to mitigate the smog.”The Punjab government prepared a 10-year climate change policy for the first time, which covered various issues, such as floods, natural disasters, rehabilitation, recovery, and vulnerable areas,” she maintained.

Earlier, LHC Justice Shahid Karim heard the petitions regarding smog mitigation, with Advocate General Punjab Khalid Ishaq appearing before the court.

During the proceedings, the court directed the Advocate General to discuss a comprehensive smog control policy with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz upon his return, emphasising the necessity of a decade-long strategy.

The Advocate General Khalid Ishaq informed the court that a budget has been allocated for introducing electric buses in Punjab, which are expected to operate by June next year.

Further updates from Khalid Ishaq included efforts to address flood situations, conserve rainwater, and tackle rising ground temperatures. He stated that work on urban forestry is underway, with a report on its progress to be submitted to the court by March.

Digital Desk