Pakistan's Punjab Province closes schools due to severe smog in major cities: Video
In response to dangerously high levels of air pollution, Pakistan's most populous province, Punjab has ordered the closure of schools in several major cities.
The Punjab government has shifted all educational institutions to online learning until November 17 as announced by the province's senior minister, Marriyum Aurangzeb on November 6.
"Higher secondary schools will be transferred to online learning in Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan. Fifty percent of the workforce -- both public and private sectors -- are asked to work remotely, and meetings will be held on Zoom. And wearing masks is made mandatory. These four steps are being notified," she said according to AFP.
Punjab's capital, Lahore, along with other major cities like Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala, has been enveloped in thick smog, causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to spike to hazardous levels.
On the day of the announcement, Lahore's AQI exceeded 1,100, far above the level of 300, which is considered dangerous.
The smog, a mix of fog and pollutants from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and crop burning, has led to a significant increase in respiratory illnesses and hospital visits.
"More than 900 patients, including children and the elderly who have sore throats, respiratory diseases, and difficulties in breathing, have been admitted to hospital," the minister added.
Additionally, a "smog war room" has been established to coordinate efforts across various departments to combat the pollution crisis. This includes measures to control the burning of agricultural waste, manage traffic, and possibly induce artificial rainfall.
