Punjab government relaxes smog restrictions

The Punjab government announced further relaxation of smog-related restrictions on Monday following an improvement in air quality.

As per a notification issued by DG Environment Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, construction activities have been allowed to resume in Lahore and three other districts. Brick kilns using zigzag technology can now operate, and both public and private offices are permitted to function at full staff capacity.

The revised regulations apply to Lahore, Gujranwala, Multan, and Faisalabad. Heavy traffic will be permitted in these districts from Monday to Thursday but will remain restricted from Friday to Sunday.

However, the rule mandating the closure of shops, markets, and malls by 8 PM remains unchanged. Restaurants can continue offering indoor and outdoor dining until 10 PM, though barbecue setups without hood systems are prohibited.

Earlier on November 19, the Punjab government extended restaurant operating hours in Lahore after a decline in smog levels.

Lahore, which had topped the global Air Quality Index (AQI) for several days as the most polluted city, has now dropped to third place. The toxic smog, caused by low-grade diesel emissions, agricultural burning, and winter cooling, had enveloped the city for days before conditions improved.