Punjab approves 10pm closure for markets to curb smog

Assembly also approves wedding halls to operate until 10pm, limiting outdoor activities which cause seasonal diseases

The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday approved a resolution mandating the closure of markets and wedding halls by 10pm across the province as part of efforts to curb worsening smog levels and spread of seasonal diseases.

The resolution, moved by treasury lawmaker Fatima Begum, noted that current weather conditions, combined with rising smog, have severely affected public health. It stated that restricting business hours would help reduce air pollution and also protect citizens against health issues, aggravated by increased late-night outdoor activity.

The resolution argued that extended commercial operations contribute to unnecessary crowding, creating conditions for viral and respiratory illnesses to spread rapidly. It further stated that keeping in view school timings and the convenience of children, a 10pm market closure would be a practical and public-friendly measure.

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A day earlier, the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecast light rainfall in Lahore for Tuesday, which could offer temporary relief as Punjab’s air quality plunges to hazardous levels, with Lahore once again ranking as the most polluted city in the world. According to the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency, the city’s average Air Quality Index was recorded at 312, indicating “very unhealthy” conditions.

Data from multiple monitoring stations on Monday showed Kahna Nau Hospital topping the list with an AQI of 402, followed by Government Teaching Hospital Shahdara (383) and the University of Engineering and Technology (381). Other severely affected areas included the Lahore Waste Management Company (361), Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute (347), Punjab University (341), and the Wagah Border (310).

Across Punjab, Lahore was followed by Hafizabad (311), Sheikhupura (272), and Gujranwala (266) among the most polluted districts.