LAHORE: The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert across the province due to heavy fog and smog.
The authority has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners to ensure timely and effective measures for public safety.
According to PDMA, Lahore, Sheikhupura and Kasur, along with several other districts, may face intense fog and smog.
Similar warnings have also been issued for Faisalabad, Nankana, Gujranwala, Jhang, Sahiwal and Layyah. Kot Addu, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan and Khanpur .
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has instructed the administration to speed up awareness campaigns against smog.
He said smog can cause breathing problems and other health issues, and children and elderly people are more at risk.
The PDMA has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, wear masks and stay updated on weather conditions.
PETROL POWERED MOTORCYCLE RICKSHAWS TO BE BANNED
The Punjab government has taken major decisions to curb smog and reduce air pollution.
In a meeting of the cabinet committee chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, it was decided to ban the production of petrol-powered motorcycle rickshaws. The meeting also approved a phased plan to gradually end the production of petrol motorcycles.
For government departments, only electric or hybrid vehicles and electric motorcycles will be purchased from now on. The meeting also imposed a complete ban on washing cars at home using tap water.
The government has decided to introduce colour-coded dustbins across Punjab, following modern international standards. Strict action has also been ordered against those who burn plastic or any material that releases toxic smoke.
Workshops under a public-private partnership have been approved to test vehicles that emit excessive smoke.
