The Punjab government has mandated the wearing of face masks for all citizens in 10 smog-affected districts of the province. Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the decision due to deteriorating air quality. The mandate, in effect from Nov 20 to Nov 26, applies to Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Narowal, Hafizabad, Sialkot, and Mandi Bahauddin. The decision comes as Lahore recorded an unhealthy Air Quality Index of 203, with PM2.5 as the main pollutant. The government previously imposed a smart lockdown in smog-hit areas and banned the burning of crop residues, but the smog situation persists. It poses serious health risks and experts advise citizens to take precautions such as wearing masks, using air purifiers, and seeking medical attention if needed.