Pakistan’s Punjab declares health emergency

Pakistan’s Punjab declared a health emergency due to toxic smog yesterday, banning construction, shutting schools for another week and moving universities online, with a 3-day lockdown possible, the province’s senior minister said yesterday.
Punjab battles toxic smog every winter as cold air traps dust, emissions, and smoke from illegal stubble burning on fields. Air quality has deteriorated drastically in recent weeks and the province’s capital Lahore currently ranks as the world’s most polluted city, says IQAir.
“A complete lockdown will be enforced on Friday [yesterday], Saturday, and Sunday (next week) if the situation does not improve by Wednesday,” said Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, addressing a press conference in Lahore.
Citizens were advised to stay indoors. Air Quality Index readings in Lahore reached 637 at 3:00 pm, according to IQAir, significantly higher than levels recommended by the WHO.