The Punjab Caretaker Government has taken a significant step in response to the alarming levels of air pollution in the region, making it mandatory for citizens in smog-affected districts to wear face masks.
Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, through a statement on social media, announced a one-week mandate emphasizing the collective responsibility of prioritizing health in the face of deteriorating air quality.
The notification issued by the Punjab healthcare department highlighted the severe threat posed to public health by the high levels of the Air Quality Index (AQI) resulting from smog.
Urging citizens to adopt safety measures to prevent airborne diseases, the government has specifically mandated the wearing of face masks during all outdoor activities in the affected districts.
Secretary of the Primary & Secondary Healthcare Department Ali Jan Khan emphasized the importance of implementing the face mask order, covering areas such as Lahore Division and Gujranwala Division, where the AQI is notably high.
The specified duration for this measure is from November 20, 2023, to November 26, 2023.
Addressing the broader environmental crisis, the government announced plans for artificial rain in the provincial capital later in the month.
Provincial Environment Minister Bilal Afzal stressed the need for a dedicated team and working group to facilitate artificial rain, including the consideration of aircraft for this purpose.
In response to the severity of the situation, the Lahore High Court has intervened, instructing the closure of all schools and colleges on Saturdays in smog-affected districts. Furthermore, the court directed the implementation of a work-from-home policy for two days a week.
