Lahore: Due to worsening smog conditions, the Punjab government has announced a one-week closure of all primary schools in Lahore.
During a press conference, Senior Minister Punjab Maryam Aurangzeb highlighted that smoke and pollution from crop burning in neighboring India had intensified Lahore’s smog crisis. Winds carrying pollutants from India’s Amritsar and Chandigarh regions have worsened air quality in Lahore, causing significant health risks for residents.
Aurangzeb detailed the Punjab government’s extensive measures to tackle the issue. Over the past eight months, collaborative efforts among multiple departments have resulted in strict anti-smog policies. These include the shutdown of more than 550 kilns and a ban on plastic bags. Despite these efforts, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has dangerously exceeded safe levels, with readings spiking to as high as 1900 in some areas before stabilizing somewhat.
She urged the public to take necessary precautions and assured that government teams are actively monitoring the situation. Authorities have been enforcing smog-related SOPs, with arrests made for violations. Additionally, over 1,000 “super seeds” have been distributed among farmers, and an e-bike initiative has been launched to curb emissions.
Emphasizing the need for international cooperation, Aurangzeb stated, “Resolving the smog issue requires dialogue with India, as pollution crosses borders much like COVID-19.” She also announced the one-week closure of primary schools up to Grade 5, hoping this measure will help reduce exposure among young children as efforts to improve air quality continue.
