LAHORE: In an effort to combat the persistent smog enveloping Lahore Division and its adjacent regions, Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has declared a public holiday on Friday, November 10.
The decision comes as various areas of the province grapple with severe air pollution, largely stemming from the burning of crop residue by farmers, exacerbated by emissions from substandard diesel.
To address the worsening smog issue, the government had earlier appealed to citizens to wear facemasks for the next month and to limit unnecessary outdoor activities. Parents were also advised to ensure that their children use facemasks when attending school and colleges.
Chief Minister Naqvi, speaking at a news conference held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, explained that Thursday, November 9, had already been designated as a national holiday to commemorate the birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, one of the nation’s founding figures. Following the advice of environmental experts, Naqvi announced the suspension of school and office operations in all districts of Lahore Division, which includes Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Nankana Sahib, as well as some areas of Gujranwala and neighbouring regions on Friday, November 10. –Agencies