The Lahore district administration has imposed a ban on outdoor activities to counter the escalating smog threat, as reported by ARY News on Monday.
According to a notification from the DC Lahore, the suspension of outdoor activities will be in effect from November 11 to 17. This includes all sports, exhibitions, events, and outdoor dining at restaurants, though religious gatherings are exempt.
Shops, markets, and malls are required to close by 8 PM, with exceptions for medical stores, labs, petrol stations, and grocery stores. Large department stores may only keep their grocery and medical sections open.
Strict penalties under Section 188 will be enforced for any violations, and Lahore’s Deputy Commissioner has advised residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and to wear masks as protective measures.
Additionally, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) is intensifying efforts to wash trees and plants along green belts and roadsides to help reduce pollution. Daily cleaning operations are taking place along Mall Road, Jail Road, and Ferozepur Road, as well as in Gulberg, Model Town, and other main areas.
PHA Director General Muhammad Tahir Wattoo stated that the team is working from morning till night, with tree planting given priority to combat smog and pollution.
A recent Green Master Plan report has highlighted six primary causes behind Lahore’s worsening smog and air pollution crisis.
