LAHORE (Dunya News) - All major cities of Punjab including Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi remained in the grip of toxic smog on Monday, prompting the Punjab government to order complete shutdown of markets and outdoor activities at 8pm till Nov 17.
A notification to the effect was issued. It said whoever would violate the instructions given by the government would be dealt under the Punjab Environment Protection Act. In addition, all kinds of sports activities, exhibitions and outdoor dining, except religious congregations, had also been restricted by the government.
According to the notification, only department stores and groceries are exempt while action will be taken against those violating the government orders.
AQI OF MAJOR CITIES
Multan topped the chart with an alarmingly high 950 average AQI. The AQI of Lahore stood at 560 whereas Rawalpindi had an AQI hovering around 254.
INCREASED LEVELS OF SMOG-INDUCED DISEASES
On the other hand, residents of Lahore are facing enhanced levels of whooping cough, chest infections and suffocation. There are reports of children suffering from pneumonia.
The five major government hospitals reported more than 35,000 patients in the last week, with complaints of eyesore and skin-related diseases.
MOTORWAYS CLOSED
Meanwhile, the motorway was closed for traffic at several points. The M1 was closed from Peshawar to Rashkai, M2 from Bhera to Kot Momin, M3 from Lahore to Dar Khana while M4 was closed from Pindi Bhattian to Abdul Hakim and M5 was restricted for traffic from Multan to Sukkur.
Read more: Multan becomes most polluted city as smog forces closure of motorway
PRECAUTIONS
Besides, notable environmentalist Ali Jabir warned that women, children and senior citizens with heart complications could be badly affected by air pollution, adding that air was full of toxic chemicals.
He suggested the citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and urged them to use hot drinks in this season.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government decided to install air purifiers and Environment Director General Imran Hamid issued a notification.
The Punjab government directed all shopping malls to use air purifiers.