Smog: health emergency declared in Lahore, Multan

LAHORE: Everyone has to work together to eliminate smog, it is the problem of the people of both India and Pakistan. Both countries will have to sit together, said Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.

In a press conference held here today, the minister said that precautionary measures have been taken on Covid-19 pandemic. Similarly, precautions have to be taken on smog.

She declared a health emergency for Lahore and Multan cities, due to worsening smog situation. “The holidays of the staff in health desks at hospitals have been cancelled. The departments have been instructed to provide medicines in abundance,” Aurangzeb said.

“Do not ride a bike except in an emergency and use a mask,” she said, adding that schools, colleges and universities in both the cities are already closed down and classes are being carried out online.

The minister informed that nearly 150,000 people across Punjab have been brought to the hospitals due to smog, in one month. 7,165 people were affected by smog in Lahore in one week, she added.

Marriyum Aurangzeb also announced the launch of a campaign to end smog. Called “DeTox campaign,” this initiative will include SOPs, and penalties for violations. Under this campaign, construction activities have been banned in Multan and Lahore starting Saturday (tomorrow) until next Sunday (November 24).

Restaurants have been given until 4 PM, after which they will only be allowed to operate ‘take away’ until 8 PM. The restaurants are directed to be shut down at 8 PM.

“A complete lockdown will be enforced in Lahore and Multan on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The data will be seen by Wednesday,” the minister said.

Aurangzeb said that the smog situation has turned into a health crisis. She said that no reduction in traffic has been observed. “The countries that fought against smog got cooperation from every sector,” she said, urging the people to follow the protocols, wear masks, and contribute in handling smog.

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