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Punjab Enacts Emergency Measures Amid Severe Smog Crisis

punjab severe smog schools closed

Lahore, November 6, 2024 — As the severe smog crisis worsens and the level reaches hazardous levels across Punjab, the provincial government has implemented a series of emergency measures aimed at protecting public health. Schools have been closed and a partial work-from-home mandate has been introduced, with new policies focusing on reducing pollution and minimizing the public’s exposure to the smog.

Emergency Measures for Punjab’s Severe Smog Crisis

  • Schools to remain closed till Nov 17, 2024 in 4 extremely affected regions including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan
  • 50% of the office strength will work from home in the said districts

Schools Closed Until November 17 Amid Severe Smog Crisis

To ensure student safety, the government has announced that all schools, from primary to high school levels, will remain closed until November 17 in heavily impacted regions including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan. During this closure, schools are expected to offer online classes to maintain educational continuity for students.

Punjab’s 50% Remote Work Mandate for Offices in 4 Regions

The government has also ordered that both public and private offices operate at half capacity in person, with the remaining 50% of employees working from home. Additionally, all official government meetings are to be held online, primarily via Zoom, to further limit travel and reduce emissions.

Air Quality Crisis Reaches Record Levels

Lahore has been one of the hardest-hit areas, with pollution levels at dangerous highs. The city’s AQI soared to an unprecedented 1,067, nearly 40 times above WHO’s recommended safe levels. PM2.5 particulates, known to cause severe health issues, have surged as the smog blankets the city. This toxic mix of fog and pollutants, largely driven by vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and agricultural burning, is expected to persist over the next week, officials warn.

Smog War Room and Monitoring Efforts In Punjab

In response to the severe air quality crisis, a dedicated “Smog War Room” has been established within the Environmental Protection Agency. This unit will monitor air pollution levels, with various departments assigned specific goals to combat the smog effectively. The government’s comprehensive response includes tracking emission sources and implementing policies to mitigate pollution sources, including enforcing bans on plastic bags and discouraging crop residue burning.

cm mns on punjab severe smog crisis

Health Implications and Public Safety Measures

Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has emphasized the need for all residents to adopt safety precautions. The use of masks is now mandatory, and citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. Aurangzeb noted that the smog has been worsened by winds carrying pollutants from neighboring regions, particularly Rajasthan in India, with the Lahore AQI (Air Quality Index) recently peaking at over 1,000, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit.

To protect yourself from Punjab’s smog, wear a mask outdoors, preferably an N95, to filter out harmful particles. Limit outdoor activities during peak smog hours, use air purifiers indoors, keep windows closed, and stay hydrated to help your body cope with the polluted air.

Clarification on Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s Health and Overseas Travel

Addressing speculations, Minister Aurangzeb clarified that Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s recent travel to Geneva was for medical treatment unrelated to the smog crisis. Despite health challenges, including a recent throat surgery, Maryam Nawaz Sharif has continued her public service efforts and is set to return to Pakistan by November 12.

Government’s Call for Compliance and Collective Action

The Punjab government is urging full compliance with these temporary policies from all sectors, emphasizing that a concerted effort is essential to improve air quality and protect public health. These measures reflect a proactive approach to managing the immediate smog crisis while laying the groundwork for long-term air quality improvements across the region.

Read more about the News and Announcements here.

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