Punjab Makes Masks Mandatory in Lahore Amid Smog

In light of deteriorating air quality in Lahore, Punjab authorities have enforced new measures to combat the hazardous smog. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching levels as high as 520, officials have made mask-wearing mandatory across the city.

The Chief Minister of Punjab has directed all relevant departments to enforce environmental regulations strictly. The crackdown has already grounded around 2,500 high-emission vehicles, sealed 469 factories, and demolished several brick kilns. Authorities have also lodged 318 FIRs against individuals engaged in illegal straw and crop burning, resulting in several arrests.

Maryam Aurangzeb appealed to citizens for cooperation, attributing part of Lahore’s poor AQI to incoming winds carrying pollutants from India. She announced that smoke-emitting vehicles and factories will remain shut, and those caught burning straw will face legal action. Additionally, an emergency traffic plan is set to reduce smog levels further.

Secretary of the Environment Protection Department, Raja Jahangir Anwar, noted that eastward winds contribute to rising pollution levels in Lahore. He acknowledged the public’s efforts to reduce burning waste and limit emissions, which has brought some improvement over the past week.