Punjab imposes smog emergency, masks mandatory for schools

The Punjab government has declared a smog emergency across the province due to the worsening air quality.

The decision was made at a meeting chaired by Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who was briefed by experts on environmental issues.

The meeting was informed that closing schools and transport would have little effect on reducing smog. Instead, the government made it compulsory for all students in public and private schools to wear masks for one month. Naqvi urged the public to also use masks for their health protection.

The chief minister directed provincial ministers to visit schools and monitor the implementation of the mask policy. He also warned that those who dispose of soil, sand and debris improperly during construction work would face legal action.

The government issued instructions to the commissioner of Lahore division, the municipal department and the Lahore Waste Management Company to implement the new guidelines to fight smog.

The government also ordered to withdraw cases against farmers who were accused of burning crop residues, a major cause of smog in Punjab. Naqvi instructed the home department to ensure that the remaining crop residues are disposed of properly and not burned. He also ordered strict action against vehicles and factories that emit smoke.

Smog is a form of air pollution that occurs when pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) react with sunlight and form airborne particles and ground-level ozone. Smog can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, headaches and reduced visibility.

According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the main sources of air pollutants in Punjab are transport (43%), industry (25%) and agriculture (20%). The report also said that smog is a transboundary issue that requires regional cooperation.