CM announces closure of schools, colleges on Friday & Saturday in smog-hit districts
LAHORE (92 News) - Schools and colleges will remain closed on Friday and Saturday due to the worsening situation of smog in 10 districts of the province.
The decision was made during a meeting of the cabinet presided over by Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi. However, markets will be opened after 3pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Addressing the meeting, CM Mohsin Naqvi said that the Mall Road will be opened only for cyclists from morning till 5pm. "We will try artificial rain, also known as cloud seeding, on November 29. A natural limit of clouds is mandatory for the artificial rain," he added.
The CM said that in Lahore, 10,000 students will receive electric bikes with subsidies while the government employees will be provided electric bikes on lease. He announced the closure of vehicle entry on Main Mall Road on Sundays, allowing only bicycles. These measures are applicable to Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Multan, and Sahiwal divisions due to increased smog effects.
Mohsin Naqvi stated that an MoU for installing air filter towers in Lahore has been signed, and a special committee will propose recommendations for providing subsidized electric bikes to students. "Steps are also being taken to offer electric bikes on lease to government employees. If conditions permit, artificial rain will be attempted on November 29, contingent on suitable cloud cover."
The chief minister clarified that while he is not in favour of the market closures, necessary steps have been taken considering the smog situation. "The government offices will be open on Fridays and after 3pm on Saturdays."
He highlighted the higher air quality index in the morning in Lahore and emphasized doubling water sprinkling on roads by WASA, PHA, and LWMC to combat smog. People should wear masks to minimize the effects of smog on their health. "The reason for the high air quality index is India's crop residue burning. Joint efforts are being made to reduce smog," he added.
