LAHORE – The provincial capital, home to over 15 million residents, has experienced alarmingly poor air quality in recent days, leading the government to introduce new measures, including the implementation of a Green Lockdown.
Under the leadership of Maryam Nawaz, the government has declared a ‘green lockdown’ in areas with high pollution levels, primarily in the city center. Officials from the Environmental Protection Department are enforcing strict measures to enhance air quality throughout Lahore.
Green LockDown in Lahore
The Green Lockdown is designed to reduce pollution levels in specific areas identified as hotspots. This initiative will restrict construction activities in designated locations, including Davis Road, Aigertron Road, Durand Road, and Kashmir Road.
In these areas, Chingchi auto-rickshaws will be banned, and the use of commercial generators and outdoor barbecues will be limited.
Punjab’s Chief Minister and other officials are clearly committed to addressing the smog crisis, with plans to engage the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab for collaboration.
Authorities are also considering the demolition of four industrial units that have failed to implement emission control systems. The Punjab Environment Protection Department has inspected 941 vehicles, issuing fines to 234 for excessive emissions and impounding 72 vehicles.
As air quality levels reach alarming heights, face masks have been made mandatory for residents of Lahore. In addition, 2,500 vehicles with faulty engines have been sealed, 469 factories shut down, and brick kilns demolished. Law enforcement has filed 318 FIRs against individuals burning straw and crop residues, resulting in multiple arrests.
The Green Lockdown and these other initiatives are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at protecting public health and improving air quality in Lahore during the ongoing smog crisis.
