The Punjab government has ordered the closure of all schools from November 7 to 17, as the province battles hazardous smog and dangerously high levels of air pollution. This decision comes in response to the alarming rise in the Air Quality Index (AQI), which reached critical levels in several districts, particularly Lahore.
Smog Declared a Calamity
On Thursday, the Punjab government officially declared smog a calamity. The provincial administration announced a series of measures aimed at tackling the hazardous air quality. These include mandatory vacations for disabled children and a ban on all activities contributing to smog formation. The government hopes to improve the air quality in affected areas and reduce the harmful effects of smog, which has worsened in recent days.
Green Lockdown and Enforcement Challenges
Just a day earlier, the Punjab government imposed a green lockdown in select areas of Lahore, identified as “smog hotspots.” However, enforcement of the lockdown remained weak, with limited action taken on the first day. To combat the smog crisis more effectively, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has invoked Section 3 of the Punjab National Calamities (Prevention and Relief) Act, 1958. This legal move allows the government to take emergency measures to restore order and provide relief in areas affected by calamities.
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Lahore Struggles with Hazardous Air Quality
On Tuesday, Lahore experienced hazardous air quality, with the AQI soaring to 609, making it the most polluted city in the world that day. The hazardous air quality has made life difficult for residents, many of whom have reported breathing problems and other health issues.
In response, the Punjab government issued a notification on Wednesday stating that all educational institutions, including private tuition centers, would remain closed until November 17. Classes will shift to online mode during this period. The closure applies to schools up to the Higher Secondary Level (12th grade/A-level) across several districts, including Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, and others. The government emphasized its efforts to tackle both the intrinsic factors causing air pollution and the deteriorating air quality.
Public Advisory on Health Risks
In addition to school closures, the Punjab government issued an advisory urging the public to wear face masks in open public spaces. This advisory will remain in effect until January 31, 2025, for residents of Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan divisions. The government highlighted the increase in respiratory diseases linked to smoke, dust, and other pollutants, posing a significant health risk to the population.
The advisory stressed the importance of taking preventive measures to avoid the worsening public health crisis. “It is imperative to take all possible safety measures for prevention of morbidity and disease caused by deteriorating air quality,” the notification read.
Long-Term Efforts to Combat Air Pollution
As Punjab grapples with this ongoing air quality crisis, officials continue to explore long-term solutions to reduce pollution. The closure of schools and the green lockdown represent just a small part of the government’s broader efforts to tackle the smog issue, which has become a recurring problem in the province. Authorities are working on stricter enforcement of air quality regulations and exploring alternative measures to improve the environment and public health.
The smog crisis in Punjab remains a pressing issue, and the government has pledged to take all necessary steps to control the air quality and protect the health of its residents.
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