New lockdown measures in Punjab: Schools closed, 50% workforce to work remotely

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): As air quality in Punjab deteriorates, the government has started imposing a lockdown. Schools have been ordered to remain closed for a week, and 50 percent of employees in both government and private offices have been instructed to work from home. However, this lockdown is being implemented in Pakistan's Punjab, as Lahore’s air quality has reached alarming levels, causing significant breathing difficulties for residents.

A "gas chamber" situation has developed in Lahore, with India being blamed for the pollution. Punjab Minister Maryam Aurangzeb reported that Lahore's Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 1000, resulting in respiratory problems and eye irritation for many. She stated that winds carrying pollution from Amritsar are worsening Lahore's air quality.

According to Aurangzeb, the pollution originating from Delhi surrounds Lahore for much of the year, with air quality remaining poor for 220 days out of 365. The wind direction is expected to stay towards Lahore for the next week, potentially worsening the pollution crisis. The AQI in Lahore has surged to 1173, while when the wind blows from Pakistan towards India, it tends to drop to around 500.

The government has decided to close schools in Lahore for a week, with online classes to be held instead. Additionally, construction activities have been halted, and water sprinkling on roads has been ordered to help reduce AQI levels. Half of the workforce in government and private offices has been directed to work remotely.

Maryam Aurangzeb added that the Punjab government has been closely monitoring Lahore’s weather for several months. Currently, the AQI is over 1000, but efforts are being made to bring it down to 100. With the ongoing stubble burning season, the situation is expected to worsen. People have been advised to stay indoors and to wear masks when going out for essential tasks.