Strict anti-smog measures to be implemented across Punjab

Lahore High Court orders work-from-home policy, market closures, and anti-smog actions amid worsening pollution.

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The Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken decisive action in response to the escalating smog crisis, issuing orders for the immediate implementation of a work-from-home policy and an early closure of markets by 8 PM.

Justice Shahid Karim, who presided over the case, underscored the urgent need to address environmental pollution and smog in the region. The court directed that all markets close at 8 PM, with a ban on Sunday operations, as part of its efforts to curb smog levels.

In addition to these measures, the court called for a ban on smoke-emitting vehicles from entering the motorway and ring roads, emphasizing that this smog emergency requires swift action.

While the court acknowledged that controlling smog will not yield immediate results, it noted that the impact of these measures may take up to five years to be fully realized, citing China’s successful pollution control efforts as a reference.

The Lahore High Court also prohibited the entry of trucks, buses, and trailers into the city, given their significant contribution to pollution levels. To help manage the traffic, the court ordered the deployment of police and Dolphin Force personnel.

Additionally, fines were imposed on smoke-emitting buses, with Rs 50,000 penalties to be levied for violations. The court urged the government to take action whenever the case is heard and called for a comprehensive evaluation of the smog situation, particularly at night.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency announced the closure of parks, zoos, and recreational areas across 17 districts, including Lahore, Sheikhupura, and Multan, from November 8 to 17.

These steps are intended to minimize exposure to the hazardous environment and protect public health.

On Friday, air quality indices in several cities soared to alarming levels. Multan recorded an air quality index of 2135, while Lahore stood at 290. Other cities like Peshawar and Rawalpindi also experienced high levels of pollution.

The Punjab government’s anti-smog campaign is in full swing, with continuous inspections of smoke-emitting generators and vehicles, resulting in 47 vehicles being impounded and fines of Rs 550,000 in the last 24 hours. Several food outlets were sealed due to environmental violations.

Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has called for all freight vehicles to be covered with tarpaulin to prevent pollution. She also urged parents to keep their children indoors, emphasizing the importance of wearing masks and following safety precautions.

The government is taking every possible step to curb smog and protect the citizens from its harmful effects.