Smog, fog: Lahore once again stands polluted

Lahore, Multan: Smog and fog continue to reign in various cities of the country, including the provincial capital Lahore which still ranks second among the most polluted cities in the world.

The average smog rate in the garden city of Lahore was recorded at 766. The Air Quality Index (AQI) of the DHA area reached 1,324, the AQI of the Syed Maratab Ali Road area was 1,210, the Ghazi Road Interchange was recorded at 850.

Due to increasing air pollution, the scope of the green lockdown has also been expanded. Universities and colleges in Lahore and Multan will remain closed due to smog. Universities and colleges have been shifted to online classes, and schools in all districts except Murree will remain closed until November 24.

There will be a complete ban on all construction work in Lahore and Multan, while national-level construction work will be allowed. Heavy traffic will be completely banned from entering Lahore and Multan, and brick kilns and furnace industry will be closed in both cities.

Under the smog emergency, restaurants in Lahore and Multan will work only till 4:00pm, while, takeway will be allowed from 4:00pm to 8:00pm and restaurants will remain completely closed after 8:00pm.

The holidays of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff in Lahore and Multan have also been canceled. OPDs of all hospitals in both cities will work till 8:00pm. Rescue 1122 will assist smog-affected patients, and all decisions will be applicable from today till November 24.

On the other hand, the motorway was also closed at various places due to smog and fog, causing inconvenience to passengers.

The motorway spokesperson said that the motorway has been closed for the safety of passengers. People should avoid unnecessary travel and ensure the use of fog lights while traveling.