LAHORE: In response to the escalating air quality crisis due to smog in Lahore and other districts of Punjab, caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has declared the closure of schools, colleges, and all educational institutes in 10 districts of the province on Friday and Saturday.
The announcement came after a crucial meeting on the smog issue in Lahore. In addition to the closure of educational institutions, Naqvi unveiled measures to combat the hazardous smog levels. Air-purifying towers are set to be installed in Lahore, and 10,000 students will receive electric motorbikes with subsidies to promote eco-friendly commuting.
The authorities had earlier drafted proposals for a soft smog lockdown, identifying excessive traffic as a major contributor to smog. The suggestions included the closure of schools, colleges, and universities on Friday, with a complete shutdown of markets, gyms, cinemas, theatres, and factories on Saturday. Restaurants would be closed on Saturday, with only take-out and home delivery permitted. Public and private transport in the city would be restricted, and government offices would operate at 50% capacity.
The proposals also considered the establishment of pickets in the city and heavy fines for factories violating environmental regulations. The imposition of Section 144 in Lahore was under consideration. Artificial rain is planned for November 29 if clouds are in proximity to Lahore.
Chief Minister Naqvi expressed reluctance to close markets, and thus, they will open at 3 pm on Friday and Saturday. All markets will remain closed on Sunday, with restaurants opening at 3 pm. The government plans to double the water spray on roads and restrict The Mall Road to cyclists from morning to 5 pm on Sunday.
Despite the government’s efforts, Lahore ranked as the second most polluted city globally for the second consecutive day on Thursday, with an average air quality index (AQI) of 272. The Mall recorded an AQI of 474, and Amir Town had a reading of 385, both considered highly unhealthy. Lahorites, however, continued to neglect recommendations to wear masks, leading to a rise in respiratory problems.
