Due to the increasing intensity of smog, the Punjab government has closed parks, entertainment centers, museums in eighteen districts of four divisions for ten days.
According to sources, the ban due to smog will continue from today till November 17.
Sources said that the ban will be in 18 districts of 4 divisions of Punjab, violation may result in arrest and fine.
On the other hand, fifteen hundred and eighty patients have been reported in various hospitals due to the increasing smog in Lahore.
The number of patients suffering from smog has increased in Lahore. 1580 patients were reported in different hospitals in 24 hours. 134 patients were reported in Services Hospital, 111 in General, 95 in Gangaram.
While 240 patients were admitted to Lahore’s Mayo Hospital, 131 to Jinnah Hospital, and 190 patients to Children’s Hospital.
Medical experts have issued instructions to the citizens to use masks and glasses.
In view of the smog, the Lahore High Court has issued an order to close all markets at 8 pm and to keep all markets closed on Sundays. Justice Shahid Karim remarked that at every hearing he has been asking for measures to control smog, he does not want to give an order that cannot be implemented.
In front of Justice Shahid Karim of Lahore High Court, various departments presented performance reports regarding the procurement of smog.
The court said that a ban should be imposed on the entry of vehicles on the motorway and ring road, and a ban on the entry of trucks and trailers into the city.
The court said that trucks and trailers are a major cause of smog and environmental pollution, police personnel should be appointed to control heavy traffic, and asked the government to take steps to control smog at every hearing.
The smog situation in Lahore is very bad, millions of citizens are sick
The court said that the real cause of pollution is the emission of heavy traffic smoke, how can the buses be fined 50, 50,000 if they are not fine, how can vehicles drive on the road without a fitness certificate.
#Markets #Punjab #including #Lahore #ordered #close #Pakistan
**Interview with Dr. Aisha Malik, Environmental Health Expert**
**Host:** Welcome to our show, Dr. Malik. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the severe smog situation in Punjab. We’ve just learned that the government has decided to close parks, entertainment centers, and museums across eighteen districts for ten days due to this crisis. What are your initial thoughts on this decision?
**Dr. Malik:** Thank you for having me. I believe this decision, although tough, is a necessary measure to protect public health. The intense smog poses serious health risks, and limiting outdoor activities can help reduce exposure for vulnerable populations, particularly children and the elderly.
**Host:** Absolutely. The closure is set to last until November 17. Do you think this is sufficient time to see any improvements in air quality?
**Dr. Malik:** The effectiveness of this closure will largely depend on various factors, such as meteorological conditions and emissions levels during this period. If the government also implements stricter pollution control measures, we could see some improvement. However, ten days might not be enough to achieve significant change in the air quality if the underlying issues are not addressed.
**Host:** We’ve seen a rise in health issues, with reports of over 1,500 patients experiencing smog-related illnesses. What are some of the common health problems caused by heavy smog?
**Dr. Malik:** Common health issues associated with smog include respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis, eye irritation, and even cardiovascular issues. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic lung diseases and other serious health conditions. It’s crucial for individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention.
**Host:** Given the current situation, what additional steps do you think the government should take to address the root causes of smog?
**Dr. Malik:** The government needs to focus on long-term strategies such as reducing vehicular emissions, enforcing stricter regulations on industrial pollution, and increasing green spaces. Public awareness campaigns about pollution and its effects can also play a vital role in driving community action.
**Host:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Malik. Your expertise is invaluable as we navigate these challenging times. We hope for clearer skies and better air quality soon.
**Dr. Malik:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a collective effort to tackle this issue effectively.
**Host:** That wraps up our interview today. Thank you for tuning in, and stay safe!
