In response to the deteriorating smog situation in Punjab, authorities have implemented a smart lockdown in 10 districts, including Lahore. The Air Quality Index in Lahore has once again surpassed 400, earning the city the title of the world’s most polluted city.
The districts under smart lockdown include Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad, and Mandi Bahauddin. A notification from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority outlines restrictions on movement and economic activities in these districts, with the closure of schools and universities. However, markets, gyms, and cinemas are permitted to open after 3 pm.
In response to the lockdown measures, Lahore’s traders have expressed willingness to comply with the 3 pm opening time set by the government. However, they emphasize the need for additional and more concrete steps to effectively combat smog. Trader leader Naeem Mir called for a comprehensive strategy and the formation of a special task force by the government to address the smog issue.
Customs Intelligence Directorate Seizes Contraband Worth Rs18.906 Billion in Nationwide Crackdown
Meanwhile, the Customs Intelligence Directorate, in a sweeping operation against smuggling and mis-invoicing nationwide, has confiscated goods valued at an astonishing Rs18.906 billion. Stringent measures implemented since September underscore the interim government’s steadfast commitment to tackling illegal trade practices.
Upon detailed analysis, it was revealed that the directorate seized goods totaling Rs14.981 billion, with contravention cases registered during the same period amounting to Rs3.925 billion.
An official announcement on Friday highlighted significant seizures across the country during this period. Punjab Customs Intelligence led with the confiscation of smuggled goods valued at Rs5.886 billion, while operations in Sindh resulted in the confiscation of contraband worth Rs5.038 billion.
