Lahore: The Punjab government has taken a significant step to reduce smog and air pollution by announcing a ‘green lockdown’ in high pollution areas of Lahore, Express News reported on Tuesday.
The Environmental Protection Department has issued a notification for the green lockdown, which will prohibit construction activities in designated areas. Additionally, the entry of auto-rickshaws will be banned, and the use of commercial generators will also be restricted. Outdoor barbecues will be prohibited after 8 pm in these areas.
The lockdown targets air pollution hotspots, including Davis Road, Aigertron Road, Durand Road, and Kashmir Road. Other areas affected by the lockdown include Shalimar Hill to Gulshan Cinema and Abbott Road, as well as Shalimar Hill to the railway station and Empress Road. Queen Mary Road and its surrounding areas have also been designated as pollution-affected regions.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has also indicated plans to write a letter to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab regarding the urgent smog crisis affecting both regions. In her remarks, the CM acknowledged the critical role of collaborative efforts in combatting smog, stating, “The issue of smog is not just political; it is a human problem. We cannot fight it effectively unless both Punjabs work together.”
Earlier today, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan scheduled a special session to address the escalating smog crisis in Lahore and nearby areas. Citing the critical levels of air pollution, Punjab Assembly Speaker emphasised the urgency of the situation, warning that the region’s air quality cannot be overlooked any longer.
Previously, Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb announced the demolition of four industrial units in Lahore for failing to install emission control systems. The Punjab Environment Protection Department inspected 941 vehicles, imposing fines of Rs503,000 on 234 for smoke emissions and impounding 72 vehicles. Maryam Aurangzeb highlighted the chief minister’s directive for strict measures against pollution and smog.
In response to Lahore’s deteriorating air quality, authorities have mandated that residents wear face masks. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached alarming levels, peaking at 520, with an average of 198 reported on Tuesday. CM Maryam Nawaz has instructed relevant departments to enforce environmental regulations rigorously. To tackle the smog crisis, approximately 2,500 vehicles with faulty engines have been grounded, 469 factories sealed, and brick kilns demolished. Additionally, law enforcement has registered 318 FIRs against individuals burning straw and crop residues, resulting in multiple arrests. These measures aim to improve air quality and protect public health in the region.
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