In response to Lahore’s escalating air pollution crisis, the Punjab government has launched a “green lockdown” in specific areas across the city. The directive, issued by the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency and implemented by senior minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, targets pollution hotspots with restrictions on activities like open-air barbecue, construction, and certain vehicular emissions. The measure is designed to curb pollution levels in Lahore, which regularly ranks among the world’s most polluted cities, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 588 in recent days.
Eleven key smog-prone areas, including Shimla Hill, Davis Road, and Durand Road, are subject to restrictions. A ban on construction within a one-kilometre radius of Shimla Hill, limits on commercial generators, and a prohibition on coal-and wood-fuelled barbecues have been set in place. Wedding halls and marquees in these zones must also close by 10 PM, while dust control will be managed through wet sweeping by the Lahore Waste Management Company.
As part of Lahore’s broader Green Master Plan, the government aims to create a “green ring” around the city, geotagging trees and increasing afforestation efforts, especially in industrial areas. In tandem, educational institutions will support a “Green Force” initiative engaging students in pollution-reduction efforts throughout the smog season.
Call for cross-border collaboration
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif underscored the need for cooperative efforts with Indian Punjab to tackle shared environmental challenges. “Smog is a humanitarian issue that transcends borders,” she stated, citing the impact of stubble burning in Indian Punjab and wind patterns that bring pollution from cities like Amritsar and New Delhi into Pakistan. Sharif signalled her intent to communicate with Indian Punjab’s Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, to pursue joint anti-smog initiatives.
New initiatives to protect minorities
During Lahore’s Diwali celebrations, Sharif announced the launch of a “Minority Card” programme aimed at providing quarterly financial support of Rs10,500 to underprivileged minority families. A Minority Virtual Police Station and a “Himmat Card” for differently-abled minorities are also in development to offer security and address community concerns. Sharif affirmed that law enforcement would prioritise protecting minority communities from mob violence and discrimination.
While applauding the government’s actions, experts from the Pakistan Air Quality Experts’ Group warned that these measures may be insufficient, calling for comprehensive policies to sustainably reduce pollution levels in Lahore.