(24 News) The Punjab government has imposed a smog health emergency in Lahore and Multan, there will be a complete lockdown on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, schools will be closed for one more week. Online classes have been ordered in all schools, colleges and universities of Punjab, Senior Minister Punjab Maryam Aurangzeb told the press. In the conference, it was said that the government has made a 10-year plan for the elimination of smog. In view of the increase in patients, the time of OPDs in the hospital has been increased to 8 pm. The holidays of the staff of government hospitals have been canceled, construction activities in the city will be banned from tomorrow for a week.
Senior Punjab Minister Maryam Aurangzeb said in a press conference that due to the worsening smog situation, I declare a health emergency in Lahore and Multan. There will be a complete lockdown in Lahore and Multan on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, in both cities from Saturday to next Sunday. Banning construction.
He said that the holidays of the staff in health desks and hospitals have been cancelled, the departments have been instructed to provide medicines while citizens do not go out on bikes except in emergencies and use masks, they will see the data by Wednesday, Smog Health. It has turned into a crisis, the Punjab government is taking all possible measures to prevent smog and has given a 10-year policy to prevent smog.
Maryam Aurangzeb said that various departments of the government are working day and night to prevent smog, kilns that do not follow zigzag technology are being demolished, but controlling smog is a long-term process. 3 months emergency measures are being taken.
The senior minister added that due to smog, schools will remain closed for another week, online classes will be held in colleges and universities, restaurants have been given time till 4 pm, but take away food from restaurants will be allowed till 8 pm.
What are the main causes of smog in Punjab, and how can they be addressed?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Environmental Expert Dr. Sarah Malik
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, everyone. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Sarah Malik, an environmental scientist and leading expert on air quality. Dr. Malik, thank you for joining us amidst what many are calling a worsening environmental crisis in Punjab.
Dr. Sarah Malik: Thank you for having me. It’s vital to raise awareness about these pressing issues, especially with the recent government actions in Lahore and Multan.
Time.news Editor: Yes, indeed. The Punjab government has declared a health emergency due to smog and has implemented lockdown measures over the weekends. What are your thoughts on these drastic measures?
Dr. Sarah Malik: The decision to impose a health emergency and lockdown is certainly a response to an acute and serious situation. Smog in Punjab, particularly during the winter months, poses significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Lockdowns may reduce exposure to poor air quality, but it’s a temporary solution rather than addressing the root causes.
Time.news Editor: That’s a significant point. With schools closing and online classes resuming, how do you see this affecting the educational landscape in the region?
Dr. Sarah Malik: Transitioning to online learning is crucial during such health emergencies to protect students and staff. However, it’s important to ensure that all students have access to technology and reliable internet. Extended closures can widen educational inequalities. The government must ensure that all learners have the support they need to thrive in an online environment.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of long-term solutions, we learned about a 10-year plan the government is developing to combat smog. What do you think should be the key components of such a plan?
Dr. Sarah Malik: A comprehensive plan should address multiple facets of smog pollution. Firstly, stringent regulations on industrial emissions and vehicular exhaust must be enforced. Secondly, increasing green spaces in urban areas can significantly improve air quality. Thirdly, promoting public transportation and reducing reliance on fossil fuels will play a crucial role. Lastly, public awareness campaigns are essential for engaging the community in pollution reduction efforts.
Time.news Editor: Those sound like practical and achievable goals. Given that smog is a recurring issue, what steps can the public take to protect themselves in the short term while waiting for these long-term solutions to take effect?
Dr. Sarah Malik: Individuals can take several steps to minimize their exposure to smog. Using air purifiers indoors, wearing masks when going outside, and limiting outdoor activities on days with high pollution levels are immediate measures. Additionally, staying informed about air quality levels through reliable apps or government sources can help people make informed decisions.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Malik. Your insights are invaluable. As we navigate this challenging situation in Punjab, it’s clear that both immediate action and long-term strategies will be necessary to ensure a healthier environment for all.
Dr. Sarah Malik: Absolutely. Collaboration between the government, communities, and individuals will be key in overcoming this environmental challenge. Thank you for highlighting these important issues.
Time.news Editor: Thank you once again, Dr. Malik, for your expertise and perspective. It’s vital we continue this conversation as the situation evolves.