Dense fog across Punjab has disrupted train schedules and affected flights, leaving passengers frustrated and stranded.
The foggy weather delayed several trains from Karachi, including the Khyber Mail, which departed seven hours late, and the Sukkur Express, which remained delayed. Passengers waiting at the Cantonment Station protested the delays and lack of information from railway staff.
Railway officials said the Sukkur Express eventually departed after a seven-hour delay, but passengers had already faced hours of inconvenience. According to officials, ticket refunds would not be issued, and affected passengers were advised to discard their tickets if they chose not to wait.
Flight Operations Affected by Poor Visibility
Fog has also impacted flights for both national and private airlines. PIA flights PK 302 and PK 303, scheduled between Karachi and Lahore, were delayed, as were Airblue’s PA 401 and PA 405. Other PIA flights to Islamabad, including PK 301 and PK 308, were also grounded due to low visibility.
Serene Air’s flight ER 503, set to depart from Karachi to Islamabad, couldn’t take off as conditions worsened.
Restrictions in Punjab Amid Worsening Smog
Amid rising smog levels, the Punjab government imposed restrictions on outdoor activities and retail operations in Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala. This move follows a Lahore High Court order addressing hazardous air quality.
Retail businesses in these cities must close by 8 PM, though essential services like pharmacies, laboratories, and vaccination centers are exempt. Large stores may keep only grocery and pharmacy sections open, while outdoor activities, restaurant seating, and public gatherings are restricted after 8 PM.
A government spokesman stated that the police have been instructed to enforce these restrictions strictly, with violators facing penalties.
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