Punjab govt shuts down all public places amid worsening smog

The Punjab government has implemented sweeping restrictions across four divisions in response to an alarming increase in smog levels, closing public parks, zoos, museums, historical sites, playlands and sports venues in Lahore, Gujranwala, Multan, and Faisalabad until November 17.

The closures come as part of emergency measures to address the hazardous air quality that has gripped the region, according to a notification issued by the Directorate General of Environment.

The directive states that violation of these measures could lead to fines and arrests under environmental protection laws. The environment department stated that these actions are part of the Punjab government’s ongoing anti-smog operations. 

Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has urged people, especially parents, not to leave their homes and even stop their children from getting out. “Schools being off doesn’t mean it’s a picnic,” Aurangzeb stressed, urging people to protect the lives of those around them by following precautionary measures.