Punjab govt issues new guidelines as smog severity decreases

LAHORE: The Punjab Environment Department has issued new guidelines after the intensity of smog in the region decreased.

According to reports, the department has announced changes in the working hours of hotels and restaurants. Restaurants and hotels will now be allowed to offer food and outdoor services up to 10 pm, extended from the previous deadline of 4 pm due to the decrease in the intensity of smog.

The Environment Department has also clarified that there will be no restrictions on home delivery services.

The improvement in air quality is due to rainfall and changes in wind speed and direction.

After reviewing the November 15 order, divisional commissioners and DCs have been directed to ensure the implementation of the revised restrictions.

Earlier on November 18, the Punjab government had announced that schools in some parts of the province would reopen from tomorrow after the smog situation eased.

The Punjab government had earlier announced that schools would be closed from November 17 to 25.

Schools in Rawalpindi division will reopen tomorrow as air pollution in the area has reduced after the smog eased, according to a notification issued by the Punjab government.

Schools in Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Attock and Chakwal to reopen from tomorrow, notification

Toxic smog levels in Lahore and other cities of Punjab have reportedly come down to some extent. Lahore is the second most polluted city in the world with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 497.