Due to worsening smog and dense fog, the Punjab government has extended the ban on outdoor activities in Lahore until November 24.
According to an official notification, all construction activities in Lahore have been halted for a week. However, construction projects of national importance are exempt from the ban.
During this period, heavy transport vehicles are prohibited from entering the city, except those carrying fuel, medicines, hospital supplies, or food items. Industries relying on brick kilns and furnaces will also remain shut.
The notification further stated that indoor dining would be banned after 4 pm, while takeaway services would not be allowed after 8 pm. Outdoor dining is entirely prohibited during this period.
Passenger buses with valid certification are exempt from the restrictions, as are ambulances, fire brigades, Rescue 1122, police, and prison vehicles.
All markets must close by 8 pm, but pharmacies, medical stores, vaccination centers, petrol pumps, tandoors, bakeries, sweet shops, flour mills, and dairy shops are exempt. E-commerce, call centers, postal and courier services, and NADRA offices will continue operations.
Additionally, schools will remain closed until November 24. Leaves for doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff have been canceled, with extended OPD hours in hospitals to manage smog-related cases. Rescue 1122 teams are on high alert to assist affected individuals.
These measures will remain effective from November 16 to 24, with strict SOPs for indoor events in wedding halls and a complete ban on outdoor sports, exhibitions, and festivals.
