Government announces closure of markets on Saturday and Sunday
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Amid the deteriorating conditions caused by smog in the province, the interim government of Punjab has made some crucial decisions. According to sources, educational institutions will now observe four weekly holidays, from Thursday to Sunday, while businesses in Lahore will have two holidays on Saturdays and Sundays.
The city of Lahore, Pakistan's second-largest, is grappling with severe air pollution and smog issues. Asthma cases are on the rise, with an average of ten thousand cases reported daily.
Lahore currently holds the unenviable second position on the list of the world's most polluted cities. Air Quality Index data reveals that Lahore's air quality is dangerously detrimental to health, with an air pollution index of 281 particulate meters
. It's worth noting that the Provincial Disaster Management Authority of Punjab has officially classified smog as a "Calamity" in the province, leading to a ban on all activities contributing to smog formation. Deputy Commissioners have been granted authority to take necessary actions to control and mitigate smog, as stated in a letter issued on November 1.
On the same day, the Punjab provincial government declared a smog emergency. However, the government emphasizes that closing schools and limiting transportation alone will not be sufficient to combat this situation.
