Punjab Declares Health Emergency, Imposes Lockdown in Lahore and Multan

The Punjab government has declared a health emergency in Lahore and Multan due to worsening smog levels, enforcing a three-day lockdown from Friday to Sunday.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb described the smog as a severe health crisis and announced that restaurants can only operate for takeout until 8 PM during the lockdown.

Lahore, which ranks among the most polluted cities globally, has seen smog levels reach critical heights. The government is weighing additional measures, including extended school holidays and potential university closures starting November 18 if weather conditions don’t improve.

The Lahore High Court has directed the government to formulate a 10-year anti-smog policy, as tighter lockdowns are being considered for areas worst affected by the smog.