Starting today, markets and restaurants in four key divisions of Punjab—Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Multan—will be required to close by 8pm. This move follows a directive from the Lahore High Court and aims to curb rising smog levels in the region.
The notification, issued by Environment Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh, mandates that all shopping malls, retail shops, and restaurants in these four divisions adhere to the new closing times. The measure will be in effect until November 17, as part of the province's efforts to tackle air pollution and improve public health.
Key exemptions to the new restrictions include pharmacies, medical stores, laboratories, bakeries, and the grocery sections of major department stores. These businesses are allowed to remain open beyond 8pm to continue serving essential needs.
This decision stems from a series of measures announced by the Lahore High Court on November 8. The court has been actively addressing concerns raised by citizens about the growing smog issue in Punjab. Justice Shahid Karim, who presided over the case, ordered the 8pm closure of all markets, along with a complete closure of markets on Sundays, to help reduce the pollution levels.
In addition to limiting market hours, the court has also taken action to reduce vehicle emissions, which are a major contributor to the smog. The court has specifically banned smoke-emitting vehicles, including heavy trucks, from entering Lahore and its surrounding areas, especially on motorways and ring roads. There are also calls for further restrictions on the entry of trucks and trawlers into urban areas, as these are significant sources of air pollution.
These measures are part of a broader effort by the provincial government to control environmental pollution and improve the air quality in Punjab, particularly as the smog season intensifies.
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