Smog update: Punjab announces holiday on Friday

LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced a holiday on Friday owing to the deteriorating situation of smog in the province, turning the usually bustling streets into eerie landscapes with only the faint glow of street lamps in the fog to guide the way.

According to the Punjab government, there will be a smog holiday in Lahore and throughout the province on both Friday and Saturday, giving the citizens a brief respite from the hazardous conditions.

A thick blanket of smog has covered the province of Punjab, causing severe problems for the people and the economy. The smog has reduced the visibility on the roads, leading to the closure of several sections of the motorways and highways, and prompting many to search for a “smog check near me” in an effort to assess their vehicles’ emissions. The smog has also affected the flights, trains, and power supply in the province, leading to a smog emergency in several areas.

Smog emergency: What will be closed aside from schools in Punjab from Friday?

Smog has forced the closure of schools because it puts the health of young people at high risk in such hazardous environmental conditions. The smog is also harmful to the health of the people, as it increases the risk of respiratory diseases, allergies, and infections, underlining the importance of smog awareness among the public.

AIR QUALITY INDEX

Lahore is among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world. Lahore has an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 374. In seven areas of Lahore, the AQI is above 400. Lahore has the highest AQI recorded at 523 in the Cantonment area.

CAUSES

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the combination of air pollution and fog causes the smog. The air pollution is mainly due to the burning of crops, brick kilns, and industries, as well as the emissions from vehicles and power plants. The fog is formed due to the low temperature, high humidity, and calm winds.

The PMD has forecasted that the smog will persist for the next few days and advised the people on how to avoid smog by staying indoors, wearing masks, and using air purifiers. The PMD has also urged the authorities to take steps to reduce the air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to the formation and intensity of the smog.

LONG SMOG HOLIDAY

With November 9 as Iqbal day holiday, November 10 as smog emergency holiday, the weekend in Punjab, for most, will stretch to four days.