Due to the persistent smog and increasing pollution levels in Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has issued a significant directive: Lahore will observe a closure on Wednesdays.
Efforts are underway by the Punjab government to tackle the smog issue in Lahore, with businesses endorsing the commission’s proposal for smog mitigation. The final approval from the cabinet is pending before this decision can be implemented.
Starting from the upcoming week, Lahore will experience a citywide shutdown every Wednesday. The Commissioner of Lahore has specified that schools, markets, both government and private institutions, as well as commute services, will remain suspended on Wednesdays.
This measure aims to combat smog, with the months of October and November being particularly affected. As a result, traffic within the city is expected to come to a standstill on Wednesdays. Schools will arrange for remote work, while banks, private institutions, markets, clubs, and hotels will also be closed.
CCPO Lahore has noted that the smog index tends to peak on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. However, traders have the option to open their shops on Sundays if they wish to do so. This decision has been made to address the growing concerns related to smog and air pollution.
A crackdown on smog-emitting vehicles has been authorized, following the orders of Punjab’s Chief Minister and the Inspector General (IG). The Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) has declared that no vehicle emitting smoke will be allowed to enter the city. Seven special teams have been formed, and checkpoints have been established at exit routes to enforce this measure.
According to reports, fines of 2,2000 rupees have been imposed on smog-causing vehicles operating within the city. It has been determined that 83% of the smog is attributed to these emissions.
Special inspections and actions will be taken at locations such as Lorry Adda, Niazi Adda, Thokar Terminal, Babusabu Chowk, Gujumta, and GT Road against dumpers, trolleys, and other trucks without tarpaulin.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
