Punjab announces to lift lockdown after air quality improves

LAHORE: Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced to lift the lockdown after the air quality improved following rain.

Naqvi has said that shops and businesses will open as usual from tomorrow.

Discussions were held with various departments regarding improving air quality, the recent restrictions on smog will be lifted from tomorrow, he said.

It has been decided to lift the restrictions after consultation with the environment department and experts.

He further said that the restaurants can start working again after 6pm.

The lockdown in Punjab over smog and fog was imposed by the government in eight districts namely Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Narowal, Hafizabad and Sialkot.

The lockdown was aimed to reduce the air pollution levels and the spread of conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, which is caused by bacterial or viral infection, smoke, dust, or chemical exposure.

 The lockdown restrictions included the closure of educational institutions, offices, shopping malls, restaurants, cinemas and gyms from Thursday to Sunday.

The lockdown was lifted after the air quality improved following rain.