The government of Punjab declares the establishment of an environmental commission in response to the severe smog affecting the province.
Punjab declares holiday on Nov 18
Caretaker Prime Minister Mohsin Naqvi declared on Wednesday that educational institutions and workplaces throughout the province would be closed this Saturday (November 18) as part of intensified initiatives to control air pollution.
The air quality today reached an unhealthy level, with PM 2.5 concentration at 195, and during the week, it peaked at 400, signifying a hazardous condition.
Naqvi’s statement came during a press conference in the provincial capital, a few days after Justice Shahid Karim of the Lahore High Court ordered the closure of all schools and colleges in Punjab on Saturdays due to the government’s failure in smog control.
Lahore, the second-largest city in Pakistan with a population of 11 million, has consistently ranked as the world’s most polluted city. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and use masks, as many are experiencing difficulty in breathing.
Also Read: Punjab government modifies smart-smog lockdown
In response to the smog crisis last week, affected areas in the province observed a four-day holiday from Friday to Sunday. Some businesses were initially asked to close but were later allowed to operate as rain had alleviated the smog.
Naqvi addressed journalists, attributing the rise in air pollution to smog. He emphasized that 90% of crop burning in winter occurs in Punjab, contributing significantly to smog, with only 10% happening in the rest of Pakistan. To address this issue, the interim chief minister stated that farmers would receive support in acquiring modern machinery, adding, “We are implementing additional measures to combat smog as well.”