Punjab closes public spaces, historic sites amid escalating smog

LAHORE:The Punjab government has imposed a ban on public access to parks, zoos, playgrounds, and other public areas in a bid to shield residents from escalating air pollution, with universities possibly set to close next week following the earlier closure of schools.

“We are closely monitoring the situation. There’s a possibility of closing universities and colleges on Monday to reduce vehicle emissions,” said Jahangir Anwar, Secretary of the Environment Protection Department, Punjab.

Friday’s directive enforces a “complete ban on public entry” in all parks, zoos, playgrounds, historical sites, monuments, museums, and recreational areas across affected regions, including Lahore, until November 17.

Meanwhile, in line with the Punjab government’s directives to mitigate the effects of smog, the following precautionary measures have been implemented: The Lahore Fort (Shahi Qila) and Shalimar Gardens are closed to tourists. The tombs of Jahangir and Noor Jahan, along with the Shahi Hammam at Delhi Gate, will remain closed until November 17. All literary events at Wazir Khan Baradari have been suspended due to smog. The History by Night tour at Lahore Fort is suspended until November 17 or until further notice. The Veikh Androon Lahore tour is also closed. The Taxali and Haveli tours are suspended as well.The Walled City Authority has announced that all tourist programmes and events will be suspended until November 17 or until further notice.