ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Markets in four major divisions of Punjab — Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Multan — will close at 8pm starting today, the provincial government announced as per orders of the Lahore High Court.
Environment Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh issued a notification declaring that all shopping malls, shops, and restaurants in these divisions must adhere to the new timings. The restriction will remain in effect until Nov 17.
The directive also bans outdoor dining at restaurants and public gatherings such as festivals and concerts across the affected divisions. However, pharmacies, medical stores, laboratories, and bakeries are exempt from the restriction. Major department stores may also keep their grocery sections open, according to the order.
The environment department says the decision will remain in effect from November 11 to 17, and has been taken in view of the increasing number of patients affected by smog.
On Nov 8, the Lahore High Court issued new orders in a series of measures aimed at controlling the rising smog levels in Punjab. Justice Shahid Karim, presiding over a hearing on citizen petitions for smog control, directed that all markets in the province must close by 8pm, with complete closures on Sundays.
The court emphasised that smoke-emitting vehicles and heavy trucks entering Lahore and surrounding areas are a major source of pollution. Consequently, the court ordered a ban on smoke-emitting vehicles on motorways and ring roads.
It also urged the provincial administration to restrict the entry of trucks and trawlers into the city, calling them are a major cause of smog and environmental pollution.
