LAHORE: In response to the worsening smog crisis, the Punjab government has announced a temporary ban on public access to parks, zoos, museums, and sports facilities. The restriction will remain in place until November 17, according to a notification from the Environment Protection Department.
The ban applies to major divisions including Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad, as authorities work to mitigate the health risks posed by hazardous air quality levels.
The Lahore High Court (LHC) has also mandated that markets close by 8 pm to combat the smog. Anyone found violating the public entry ban will face penalties under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code.
In addition, all school activities, including parent-teacher meetings, trips, sports, and on-campus events, have been suspended. This follows the earlier closure of schools up to the higher secondary level in key divisions due to hazardous air conditions.
As of Friday, the air quality index (AQI) in Lahore reached an alarming 860, later dropping to 569 by 1 pm but remaining well within the hazardous range, severely affecting daily life in the city.
