The Punjab government has declared a health emergency in Multan and Lahore amid worsening smog conditions. Senior Minister for Information and Environment Protection, Marriyum Aurangzeb, confirmed the decision during a press conference, emphasizing the severity of the situation. She stated that the smog has caused a sharp rise in respiratory problems, affecting over 600,000 people in just a week, with 65,000 hospitalizations reported.
In response, the Health Department has ordered immediate action, including canceling paramedical staff leaves and extending outpatient department (OPD) hours until 8 PM. Additionally, Rescue 1122 services have been intensified to provide assistance.
Aurangzeb urged the public to take the smog crisis seriously, warning that the health risks are now at an extreme level. She advised against unnecessary motorcycle travel and urged citizens to limit outdoor activities.
To combat the situation, the Punjab government has enforced stricter measures, including sealing businesses that violate early closure timings. In Lahore, 75 shops, several wedding halls, and 14 restaurants were sealed for not complying with the 8 PM closure regulation, while 9 shops and 3 restaurants in Shalimar Tehsil were also shut down. Other areas, including Ravi Tehsil and Raiwind Tehsil, saw similar enforcement actions for non-compliance with the early closure rules.
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