Staff Report
LAHORE (October 30, 2024): The Punjab government Thursday enforced a ‘green lockdown’ in 11 areas of the city declared as smog hot-spots with Shimla Hill termed as the worst hit location.
Under the green lockdown, all construction activities within a one-kilometre radius of Shimla Hill (Lahore Press Club) and surrounding areas will be strictly prohibited, and the use of commercial generators not allowed, also heavy transport vehicles and Chingchi rickshaws are restricted from these zones, besides prohibition of barbecue activities after 8pm. Additionally, a 50% of office employees will work from home.
A notification to this effect was issued on Wednesday by Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, who also said, “the chief minister has made a revolutionary decision to create a green ring around the city using modern technology. Under the Lahore Green Master Plan, a “wall of trees” will be built to curb carbon emissions and increase oxygen levels.”
Other area comprised Abbot Road, Egerton Road, Empress Road, Durand Road, Devis Road, Gari Shahu Chowk, Police Lines and Montgomery Road.
Under the plan every tree will be geo-tagged, and afforestation efforts in industrial areas will be increased, she said. According to the minister, cooperation with industries will be prioritized to expand tree plantations in industrial zones, and educational institutions and students will participate as part of a “Green Force” initiative, particularly during the three-month smog season.
The Punjab government’s ‘Operation Clean-Up’ against environmental violations is underway, with two factories sealed and fines worth Rs 200,000 imposed for causing pollution. Additionally, three brick-kilns and four plastic melting plants have been demolished. Several food outlets in Model Town were sealed due to smoke emissions. Trolleys carrying sand and soil have been instructed to use covers, reducing dust on roads. Efforts against plastic bags are progressing quickly, said a DGPR presser.
Earlier this month 296 smoke emitting vehicles were charged with Rs 592,000 fine and 102 vehicles impounded. Under a chief minister’s directive, 30 electric buses will be introduced in Lahore along with e-bikes. The minister has appealed the public to support the ‘fight against smog’ and to report violations on helpline 1373.