The Punjab government has made it mandatory for motorcyclists to wear masks as part of new precautionary measures to combat worsening air pollution across the province.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb said air currents from Delhi, Chandigarh, Gurdaspur, Ludhiana, and Patiala are pushing polluted air toward Lahore, while Multan, Bahawalpur, and Bahawalnagar are also being affected by smog drifting from across the Indian border.
She added that construction sites have been instructed to cover materials properly, and transporters carrying goods must keep their loads covered. “Wearing masks while riding motorcycles is now compulsory. Citizens should also keep car windows closed and ensure that doors and windows in homes remain shut,” the minister said.
According to Aurangzeb, a slight improvement in air quality is expected between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., though mild haze may persist in the afternoon despite clearer skies.
The minister further stated that anti-smog guns and water sprinkling operations are being carried out in Lahore and other cities. She stressed that every citizen’s cooperation is essential to reduce smog and ensure cleaner air.
“Individual responsibility and collective effort are key to achieving long-term success against pollution,” she emphasized.