LAHORE: The Punjab government is considering implementing restrictions similar to those imposed during the coronavirus pandemic in Lahore to minimize the level of the worsening smog situation in the provincial capital.
As per reports, authorities may declare a complete shutdown on Wednesdays, with schools, markets, and factories all closed. Government departments could operate with only 50% of their staff on Wednesdays, and weekend snap-checks on Saturday and Sunday have been recommended.
Factories Contribute 7% To Lahore’s Smog
The primary cause of smog in the city is attributed to heavy traffic, while emissions from factories contribute 7% to overall pollution in Lahore. To address this, hefty fines for factories violating regulations are under consideration, with potential closures for continued non-compliance. Notably, the highest smog levels are recorded on Mondays through Wednesdays.
Moreover, Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa has suggested implementing a two-month work-from-home policy in the Lahore Division to control smog. This proposal comes after discussions with traders regarding the possible closure of markets on Wednesdays. Traders expressed support for closing markets mid-week as part of anti-smog measures, and the commissioner indicated that markets could open on Sundays if desired. Final decisions on market timings and closures will be made after further consultations with traders.
The severe air pollution in Pakistan, particularly in highly polluted regions like Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, and Peshawar, could shorten life expectancy by at least seven years, according to a report from the University of Chicago’s Energy Policy Institute. The report’s Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) indicates that air pollution, specifically particulate pollution, is a significant threat to public health in the country. If Pakistan adheres to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for particulate pollution, it could add nearly four years to the average resident’s life expectancy. However, currently, all 240 million Pakistanis live in areas exceeding WHO guidelines for annual particulate pollution. The report also highlights that India is responsible for a significant portion of the world’s increase in pollution since 2013.
