Burning garbage prohibited in Pindi

RAWALPINDI:

To control the annual phenomenon of smog - smoke and fog - the Rawalpindi District Health Authority (DHA) on Tuesday said that garbage can no longer be burnt in the city and that strict action will be taken against those who do.

Following instructions from Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar, immediate measures are being taken to combat the threat of smog this year, the RDA Chief Executive Officer Dr Sohail Chaudhry said.

The CEO said that to mitigate factors resulting in smog, there is a need to adopt preventive measures and increase awareness of smog-related issues. He added that nobody will be allowed to burn chemicals and waste in the city and strict action will be taken against violators of anti-smog protocols.

Dr Chaudhry advised that people should wear masks to protect themselves from developing breathing issues because of smog such as eye, nose and throat infections. DHA Focal Person for Smog Dr Ali Mirza further recommended avoiding walks during morning and evening hours. He advised that people need to stay hydrated and clean their houses using wet cloths.

Mirza added that promoting tree plantation is vital to counter the spread of smog and reduce environmental pollution.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 9^th, 2020.