Smog Crisis: Punjab Government Shuts Schools, Imposes Restrictions
As the air quality in Lahore and Multan plummets to hazardous levels, the Punjab government has declared a health emergency to combat the worsening smog crisis. Senior Minister for Information and Environment Protection, Marriyum Aurangzeb, announced an extension of school closures and stringent measures to safeguard public health.
Lahore, home to over 14 million residents, has been ranked the most polluted city in the world this month, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting alarming levels of 732 before marginally improving. Multan, another heavily affected city, has also reported dangerously low air quality.
To mitigate the impact, schools in the smog-hit districts will remain closed for another week, with colleges and universities shifting to online classes. Additionally, outdoor activities have been banned, and restaurants are now restricted to takeaway services after 4 pm. Shopping malls and markets must close by 8 pm, while construction activities have been halted for the upcoming week.
Lockdowns and Health Risks
A partial lockdown has been implemented in Lahore and Multan on weekends, as authorities aim to monitor air pollution levels closely. Citizens are advised to stay indoors, wear face masks, and minimize outdoor exposure. The Punjab Health Department has reported a staggering 1.9 million cases of smog-related illnesses, including asthma, heart disease, and strokes, in October alone.
Court Intervenes for Long-Term Solutions
Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has urged the provincial government to formulate a decade-long smog control policy. Justice Shahid Karim suggested adopting Beijing’s environmental model, emphasizing urban forestry, electric public transport, and stricter land-use policies.
The government is also planning to introduce electric buses by June 2025, signaling a shift towards sustainable urban development. However, critics argue that these initiatives may be too little, too late, given the severity of the crisis.
