Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced that Wednesday remains a regular working day based on a better air quality index (AQI), reported the 24NewsHD TV channel.
This means that educational institutions, markets, and offices will remain open in Lahore on Wednesdays.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Naqvi said that he held a crucial smog meeting with all cabinet members. The cabinet meeting decided that Wednesday will not be declared a holiday based on the air quality index.
https://twitter.com/MohsinnaqviC42/status/1716412481999143063
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of cracking down on all sources of air pollution and ensuring the well-being of the residents. He stated, "The transport secretary, district administration, and police are on the ground to combat air pollution sources.
Mohsin Naqvi issued a stern directive for indiscriminate action against brick kilns and factories found responsible for contributing to the region's smog problem. "Factories found emitting more smoke than the prescribed limits and engaging in the hazardous practice of burning tires will face immediate closure," he said.
Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners have been ordered to take resolute action against those responsible for burning crop residue, a common practice that significantly worsens air quality.
Additionally, strict measures are being taken against the sale of substandard fuel, ensuring that only high-quality, low-emission fuels are available to the public, the CM said, adding that to further improve air quality, water will be continuously sprinkled on roads by the district administration.
Furthermore, the construction industry will be required to follow guidelines that mandate the covering of sand and gravel and the continuous sprinkling of water at construction sites.
We're vigilant and taking proactive measures to keep the air quality index under control, he added.
With air quality becoming a grave concern, the Punjab government is taking a proactive stance to tackle the issue.
Earlier, it was decided to keep the schools, markets, banks, and private institutions closed every Wednesday aimed at reducing vehicular emissions and industrial activities to alleviate air pollution.