The Punjab govt has declared a health emergency in Lahore and Multan. This emergency will entail a complete lockdown in both cities on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

During a press conference, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “The smog has now escalated into a health crisis.” She also announced that restaurants will be permitted to offer takeout services until 8 PM.

This decision comes as Lahore remains one of the most polluted cities in the world, with smog levels reaching alarming heights.

The government is considering further measures, including extending school holidays.

Due to increasing smog intensity, Lahore continues to rank as one of the world’s most polluted cities. Reports suggested that the Punjab government is contemplating additional holidays for schools, and if it doesn’t rain, universities may be closed starting November 18.

Meanwhile, today the Lahore High Court directed the Punjab government to develop a 10-year policy to combat smog.

Sources also indicated that lockdown restrictions will be tightened in areas with higher levels of smog.

Shops and food points closed, heavy fines imposed

Lahore district administration conducted late-night operations, resulting in the closure of 56 shops and 13 food points. These actions were taken for failing to adhere to mandated market hours and outdoor dining restrictions.

The administration imposed fines totaling Rs50,000 on the violating shops. Additionally, 10 restaurants and 3 open barbecue points were shut down for permitting outdoor dining, which is prohibited after 8 PM. The district administration is actively enforcing these regulations across all tehsils in Lahore, ensuring compliance without exception.

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The traffic police in Punjab have ramped up their crackdown on vehicles emitting smoke. Over the past 24 hours, they issued fines exceeding Rs173 million, targeting more than 8,673 vehicles. This initiative included suspending the fitness certificates of over 10 vehicles, revoking route permits for more than 11 vehicles, and registering over 10 cases against offenders.

Furthermore, more than 1,173 smoky vehicles were seized, and over 2,300 uncovered tractor-trailers carrying sand were heavily fined for contributing to air pollution. The enforcement actions aim to mitigate the adverse effects of smog and improve air quality in the region.