A public holiday has been declared on November 10, 2023 (Friday) in Lahore Division and some other districts including Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sialkot, and Narowal.
The decision to this effect was taken by the government of Punjab as a proactive measure to address the pervasive smog crisis.
This move, initiated to safeguard public health, comes after the government imposed a health emergency in Lahore and two other divisions from November 9 to 12.
The official notification released by the government states, “It is notified for general information that a Public Holiday shall be observed on 10th November 2023 (Friday) in Lahore Division (District Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur), District Gujranwala, District Hafizabad, District Sialkot & District Narowal, due to smog, except those offices exempted by Primary & Secondary Healthcare Department.”
During this period, all commercial establishments, including markets, shopping malls, restaurants, cinemas, gymnasiums, schools, and both public and private offices, will remain closed for four days in Lahore, Gujranwala, and Hafizabad divisions. This precautionary measure aims to minimize public exposure to the hazardous air quality prevalent in these regions.
The alarming rise in air pollution in South Asia has been exacerbated by rapid industrialization, leading to increased pollutants from factories, construction activities, and vehicular emissions in densely populated areas.
The situation worsens during the cooler autumn and winter months when temperature inversion traps pollutants close to the ground, creating a thick blanket of smog. This recent bout of heavy smog in Lahore has significantly reduced visibility and raised concerns among residents about the potential threats to their health.
In light of these pressing concerns, the Punjab government’s decision to declare a public holiday and implement strict restrictions on commercial activities reflects a concerted effort to prioritize public health and safety amid the ongoing smog crisis.
