The federal government has taken action to protect citizens from the worsening smog in Islamabad. The authorities have banned smoke-emitting vehicles, factories, and brick kilns and prohibited burning waste and crops to reduce pollution.
This two-month ban, enforced under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, is an urgent response to health risks posed by smog. Officials warned that they would strictly enforce these regulations, emphasizing the importance of controlling pollution to protect public health.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an alert about smog persisting in Islamabad and Rawalpindi through February. In a letter to the deputy commissioner, the EPA requested further action against smoke-emitting industries and vehicles. They also highlighted the impact of smog in other cities like Lahore, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Multan, and Faisalabad.
Doctors have warned of serious health risks linked to smog, which can cause respiratory and heart problems, as well as eye and skin irritation. They recommend that vulnerable groups, like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues, wear masks outdoors, rinse their mouths, and avoid outdoor activities, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
The air quality index (AQI) in Islamabad recently hit an unhealthy level of 169, according to the World Air Quality Index, which measures the concentration of PM2.5, a dangerous pollutant. This rise in pollution followed Diwali celebrations in neighboring New Delhi, where fireworks use increased air pollution despite a government ban.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Punjab has also declared a smog calamity and restricted activities that worsen air quality. These include burning crop residue, operating smoke-producing vehicles, and running factories without emission controls.
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