LAHORE: The Punjab government has implemented a smart lockdown in various districts of the province with the aim of reducing smog and maintaining clear skies. This four-day lockdown involves the closure of schools and markets, with people advised to stay at home except for essential needs.
Initially, the smart lockdown was scheduled from Thursday to Sunday, but the government later decided to relax restrictions for the first two days in eight districts. These districts include Lahore, Nankana Sahab, Sheikhupura, Qasoor, Gujranwala, Narowal, Hafizabad, and Sialkot.
In these eight districts, markets, including shopping malls, are allowed to remain open on Thursday and Friday. Lahore is using safe city cameras to monitor the enforcement of the lockdown.
Smog becomes a significant concern in the region as winter approaches, and Lahore has been ranked as one of the world’s worst cities in terms of air pollution. The issue even reached the Lahore High Court, which ordered preemptive measures to combat smog.
Pakistan to Release 80 Indian Fishermen After Serving Prison Sentences
In another development, Pakistan is releasing 80 Indian fishermen who have served their prison sentences in the country. These fishermen have completed their incarceration at Malir Jail in Karachi.
The fishermen are scheduled to be transported to Lahore via the Allama Iqbal Express at 2 p.m. The expenses for their train journey will be covered by the Edhi Foundation, which will also provide the fishermen with clothing, cash, and other essential items.
Upon reaching Lahore, these fishermen will be handed over to Indian authorities at the Wagah border.
It’s worth noting that fishermen from both India and Pakistan are frequently detained after accidentally entering each other’s territorial waters while fishing.
