LAHORE: In response to the ongoing smog crisis affecting millions in Punjab, the provincial government has introduced a work-from-home policy for office employees in areas heavily impacted by air pollution. The move aims to mitigate the adverse effects of hazardous air quality on public health.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, leading the provincial government, announced that the new policy applies to both public and private sector workplaces in smog-affected divisions, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan. Under the policy, offices will be required to operate with only 50 percent in-person staff to reduce exposure to the toxic haze and limit daily commuting, which contributes significantly to the rise in pollution levels.
In addition to the work-from-home directive, the Punjab government has also ordered the closure of schools in smog-prone districts until November 17. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed that online classes would be held during this period to ensure that students continue their education despite the disruptions caused by the environmental crisis. The minister further noted that the severe smog is primarily a result of winds from India, which have worsened air quality in cities such as Multan, Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala.
The provincial administration has already implemented several measures, including a “green lockdown” in certain areas of Lahore. These restrictions include a ban on construction work, limited use of commercial generators, and restrictions on chingchi rickshaws. Furthermore, businesses like restaurants and barbecue services in the most affected zones will also face limitations, with operating hours restricted after 8 p.m.
In an effort to address the root cause of the smog, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz suggested initiating “smog diplomacy” with the Indian government. During a Diwali gathering in Lahore, she expressed her intent to reach out to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab, stressing that the issue of smog transcends political boundaries and requires collaborative efforts between both sides to effectively combat the environmental hazard.
