Lahore: Recommendations for implementing a soft lockdown to address smog issues in Punjab have been prepared, including the closure of restaurants, markets, and educational institutions.
Chief Minister of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, has convened a crucial meeting today regarding smog, where the following recommendations may be presented: After a soft lockdown on Wednesday and Thursday, imposing a ban on vehicles in the city, the proposal suggests complete closure of markets, malls, cinemas, theaters, and factories on Fridays.
The recommendation includes the closure of restaurants on Fridays, allowing only takeaways and home deliveries. Authorities have proposed closing educational institutions on Wednesdays. During the soft lockdown, it is suggested to halt the engines of vehicles at traffic signals on major highways, and restrict public and private vehicles in the city.
Additionally, the proposal indicates that half of the government employees will work on Wednesdays. There is also consideration for the closure of brothels and proposals for stringent penalties for serious offenses. According to sources, the provincial government in Punjab states that the enforcement of Section 144 is also under consideration in Lahore.