- CM says that this decision has been taken after assessing the improvement in air quality.
- Experts from Punjab Environment Department discussed the smog situation.
- Smog related restrictions will be lifted from tomorrow morning.
After heavy rains lashed parts of Punjab on Friday, the provincial government has decided to lift the lockdown imposed to combat the dense smog that has engulfed several districts, worsening the air quality to dangerous levels. Has occurred.
However, rain washed away the haze, improving the air quality.
“After assessing the improved air quality following the recent rainfall, in consultation with experts [the] Punjab Environment Department, we have decided to lift the lockdown,” acting Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced to X.
He said shops and markets can function regularly, while restaurants can also continue operations after 6 pm, as restricted under the smart lockdown imposed in view of the smog conditions.
“The recent smog-related restrictions will be lifted from tomorrow morning,” he said.
Punjab authorities on Thursday revised the lockdown already imposed in several districts of the province, including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sialkot and Narowal.
According to the notification, markets in smog-affected districts were to be allowed to operate on Thursday and Friday, however, shopping malls and markets will remain closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Earlier in the week, an environment and health emergency was declared for four days in Lahore, Gujranwala and Hafizabad divisions due to the prevailing smog conditions.
At this AQI level, the city maintained its position as one of the most polluted cities, with citizens experiencing smog and a hazy environment throughout the day. The air quality was extremely poor, making it almost impossible to breathe normally outside.
