In response to the worsening air quality, the Punjab government has announced the closure of schools in smog-affected districts until November 17. This move comes as the province grapples with an intense smog crisis, which has caused pollution levels to soar to dangerous heights.
Senior minister Maryam Aurangzeb confirmed the closure and added that the government has also mandated the wearing of face masks in areas severely impacted by the smog. The affected districts include major cities such as Multan, Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala, where the air quality has deteriorated significantly due to winds carrying pollution from neighboring India.
In addition to school closures, the provincial government has introduced online classes to ensure continued education for students. Furthermore, 50% of government and private office employees are now required to work from home, in an effort to reduce exposure to the harmful air.
The air quality in Lahore has reached alarming levels, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting a dangerous 1,165 on Wednesday. Some areas in Lahore saw even higher readings, including Defence Phase VIII at 1,696 and Davies Road at 1,464. These figures indicate pollution levels that are far beyond the World Health Organization’s safe limits, with harmful chemicals in the air being reported at 131 times higher than recommended standards.
The provincial government is taking steps to address the situation. A letter will be sent to the foreign office to raise concerns about the transboundary pollution affecting the region. Additionally, authorities are working on amending laws to prevent farmers from burning crop residue, a major contributor to the pollution.
As the situation continues to worsen, the Punjab government urges residents to take precautions and avoid outdoor activities as much as possible. The health and safety of the public remain the top priority as officials work to combat the ongoing smog crisis.
