As Lahore struggles with smog, the Punjab government announced on Wednesday a “green lockdown” in key pollution hotspots across the city as a precautionary measure.
This decision comes as Lahore faces severe air pollution, with the air quality index (AQI) reaching 532 earlier this week. Each winter, the city experiences heightened pollution levels as colder temperatures trap dust from construction, vehicle emissions, and smoke.
Restrictions have been placed in identified pollution hotspots, including Davis Road, Egerton Road, Durand Road, Kashmir Road, Abbott Road (from Shimla Hill to Gulistan Cinema), Empress Road (from Shimla Hill to Railway Headquarters), and Queen Mary Road (from Durand Road to Allama Iqbal Road).
According to the issued notification, construction activities are banned in these areas, along with ching-chi rickshaws and commercial generators. Additionally, open food cooking points and BBQs must close by 8 PM, and food outlets using charcoal, coal, or wood without proper emission controls are prohibited. Marquees and wedding halls must also cease operations by 10 PM, and dry sweeping is banned.
The notification states that both government and private offices in these areas should implement a work-from-home policy (50% on a rotation or need basis). Car parking must follow guidelines from the Chief Traffic Officer.
Heavy transport vehicles entering these areas will be monitored by a special team, and any vehicle emitting black smoke will be denied entry.
The order takes effect immediately, and enforcement actions will be taken against non-compliance.
