LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has unveiled a series of emergency measures to combat the worsening smog crisis in the province, declaring a health emergency in Lahore and Multan.
Addressing a press conference in Lahore, Marriyum highlighted the critical situation, noting that air quality indices (AQI) in several cities, including Lahore, have reached hazardous levels. Lahore’s AQI has soared to an alarming 2800, she said, underlining the urgent need for action.
Marriyum urged citizens to cooperate in tackling the crisis, drawing parallels with countries that successfully curbed smog through collective efforts. She encouraged people to remain indoors over the weekend and called on artists, media, and influencers to help raise awareness about the health risks posed by smog.
“I personally toured Lahore wearing a mask and saw people going about their day as if nothing was wrong,” she remarked. “Many are traveling in cars and motorcycles without masks, oblivious to the deadly consequences of smog. I urge the private sector to enforce mask use.”
She also appealed for unity, urging critics to set aside differences and join hands against the smog crisis. “The situation demands immediate action, and the announced measures will be enforced starting next week,” she stated.
Key Measures Announced:
- Closure of Emission Sources: All brick kilns and furnace-based plants in Lahore and Multan have been shut down from Friday.
- Potential Lockdown: A complete lockdown may be imposed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday if conditions do not improve by Wednesday.
- Restricted Dining Hours: Dine-in services at restaurants will only be permitted until 4 p.m., with takeaway services allowed thereafter.
- Educational Adjustments: Schools, colleges, and universities across Punjab, except in Murree, will remain closed and shift to online learning.
- Ban on Construction: Construction activities in Lahore and Multan have been suspended starting Friday.
- Healthcare Preparedness: Paramedical staff holidays have been canceled, and hospital OPDs will operate until 8 p.m.
- Green Initiatives: Projects for e-bikes and eco-friendly EAQ oils are underway, and e-buses will soon be introduced in Lahore.
The minister revealed that over 40,000 smog-affected patients are currently receiving treatment in hospitals. She stressed the importance of limiting outdoor activities and always wearing masks, especially when traveling by motorcycle.
Marriyum also expressed her intention to appear before the Lahore High Court, which is hearing a smog-related case, to brief the judge on the government’s response. She emphasized the severity of the situation: “This is no longer just an environmental issue; it has become a public health crisis.”
As part of the government’s awareness efforts, a campaign titled “Detox Lahore” has been launched to educate citizens about the life-threatening dangers of smog. “Please only leave your homes for essential work, and always wear masks if you must go out,” she urged.
I am an experienced writer, analyst, and author. My exposure in English journalism spans more than 28 years. In the past, I have been working with daily The Muslim (Lahore Bureau), daily Business Recorder (Lahore/Islamabad Bureaus), Daily Times, Islamabad, daily The Nation (Lahore and Karachi). With daily The Nation, I have served as Resident Editor, Karachi. Since 2009, I have been working as a Freelance Writer/Editor for American organizations.
