Punjab Lifts Smog Lockdown: Improved Air Quality Spurs Easing of Restrictions”

In response to a Significant improvement in air Quality after a heavy Spell of rain the Punjab Government has made the decision to lift the Smart lockdown that was implemented to combat the hazardous Smog conditions across various Districts. Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the decision stating that the recent rainfall had effectively washed away the smog, leading to a notable enhancement in air Quality.

“After assessing improved air quality post recent rainfall, in consultation with experts and Punjab environment department, we’ve decided to lift the lockdown, declared Chief Minister Naqvi. Consequently shops and markets are now permitted to resume normal Operations, and restaurants can continue their services after 6 pm, adhering to the restrictions Previously imposed during the Smog-induced Smart lockdown.

The earlier lockdown measures which were in effect from Thursday to Sunday, covered cities such as Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Narowal, and Hafizabad. The initial lockdown included Restrictions on educational institutions, Offices, shopping malls, restaurants, Cinemas, and gyms in these areas.

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However, in response to Strong opposition from the business and trading community the government revised its lockdown Strategy, permitting markets to operate for two days. Additionally, Restaurants, cinemas, and gyms were allowed to remain operational during this Period.


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Previously an environmental and health emergency had been declared in Lahore, Gujranwala, and Hafizabad divisions due to the persistent Smog Conditions. This Decision aimed to address the alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) maintaining the City’s unfortunate status as one of the most Polluted with Citizens experiencing a hazy and Smoggy atmosphere throughout the Day.