Punjab considering a weekly Wednesday holiday in educational institutes. In the wake of a burgeoning air pollution crisis in Lahore, the interim government in Punjab considered implementing a measure for a weekly Wednesday holiday in educational institutions to address the escalating levels of smog.
This proposal came amid a pressing surge in the Air Quality Index, which had reached hazardous levels, prompting concerns for public health and safety.
However, despite the gravity of the situation, the caretaker Minister for Environment, Bilal Afzal, made a decisive ruling against declaring a school holiday in the metropolis on Wednesdays.
This decision was communicated following a comprehensive review of the dire circumstances during a pivotal meeting of the Punjab Cabinet Committee on smog control.
Minister Bilal Afzal emphasized the incumbent administration’s commitment to executing immediate and effective measures aimed at curbing the distressing levels of air pollution prevalent in the region.
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This assurance was offered despite the gravity of the situation, wherein Lahore, a city of over 20 million people, was reported as the most polluted city globally, with air quality registering at hazardous levels.
The city, known for its rich cultural heritage, has been shrouded by a thick layer of smog, particularly as the winter season approaches.
The Air Quality Index in Lahore has repeatedly shown alarming increases, with the level of smog soaring to a peak of 500 over the recent weekend. Despite concerted efforts and measures put in place, the persistent nature of the smog issue continues to pose significant challenges.
The situation underscores the necessity for more comprehensive and immediate actions to address the severity of air pollution in the region, as the welfare and health of the populace remain under threat due to the ongoing smog crisis.
The provincial government’s commitment to tackling this issue remains a focal point as they navigate this environmental challenge.
