Smog crisis: Punjab govt introduces work-from-home policy for office employees

LAHORE: The Punjab government has introduced a work-from-home policy for office employees in regions heavily affected by smog, aiming to mitigate the severe air pollution impacting millions.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the provincial government announced this remote work policy for public and private offices in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan.

Offices are instructed to operate with only 50 percent of staff on-site to minimize exposure to the hazardous air and reduce transportation, a major contributor to pollution.

Previously, the government ordered school closures in smog-affected districts and mandated mask-wearing.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that schools will remain closed until November 17, with classes shifted online. She attributed worsening air quality in cities like Multan, Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala to winds from India and announced plans to address the issue with the foreign office.

In Lahore, a “green lockdown” was implemented in areas like Davis Road, Egerton Road, and Allama Iqbal Road, restricting construction, certain types of vehicles, and use of commercial generators.

Restaurants in heavily affected areas must also close by 8 pm. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has advocated for “smog diplomacy” with India, emphasizing the need for a cross-border approach to tackle the air quality crisis affecting both sides.