Amidst severe smog in the province, all deputy commissioners have been appointed as relief commissioners, according to reports.
In an effort to control smog in Punjab, the PDMA has issued a letter stating that all necessary measures will be taken. The provincial administration has also imposed a ban on burning crop residue across the province.
Under emergency smog measures, the caretaker Punjab government has made an important decision regarding schools, colleges, and public transport.
Punjab’s decision on schools and transport during smog emergency
The caretaker Punjab government has decided not to close schools, colleges, and public transport during the smog emergency. This decision was made during a high-level session chaired by caretaker Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Mohsin Naqvi.
Environmental experts briefed CM Naqvi that closing schools and public transport would have no significant impact. However, they agreed on the importance of raising awareness among the general public and educational institutions to mitigate the adverse effects of smog.
As a result, authorities have made it mandatory for students in all government and private schools to wear face masks for a month.
It is worth mentioning that the Lahore High Court has taken a strong stand against factories emitting black smoke and has ruled that immediate closure should not be enforced on such facilities.