Lahore’s Green Lockdown: Efforts to Combat Smog in Pakistan’s Punjab
The Punjab government in Pakistan has initiated a “green lockdown” in Lahore to tackle severe air pollution. This measure targets smog hotspots, including areas like Shimla Hill, where restrictions are placed on activities such as construction, use of certain vehicles, and open barbecues. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore recently peaked at 588, indicating hazardous pollution levels.
Key Measures and Restrictions
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced that the lockdown would begin on Thursday, affecting 11 identified smog hotspots. Construction within a one-kilometer radius of Shimla Hill is banned, and commercial generators and Qingqi motorcycle rickshaws face restrictions. Barbecue activities are prohibited after 8 pm, and food outlets using charcoal or wood must cease operations. Marriage halls must close by 10 pm, and only wet sweeping is allowed to reduce dust.
Environmental Initiatives
The government plans to create a “green ring” around Lahore, planting trees to reduce carbon emissions. This initiative involves geo-tagging trees and increasing afforestation in industrial areas. Educational institutions and students will participate in a “Green Force” during the smog season. The introduction of 30 electric buses and e-bikes is also planned to further reduce pollution.
Criticism from Experts
Despite these efforts, the Pakistan Air Quality Experts’ Group has criticized the measures as insufficient and poorly planned, doubting their effectiveness in significantly reducing air pollution.
Doubts Revealed
Lahore -: Lahore is a big city in Pakistan, which is a country next to India. It’s known for its rich history and culture.
Green Lockdown -: A ‘green lockdown’ is a special type of lockdown aimed at reducing pollution. It involves stopping activities that cause pollution, like construction and using certain vehicles.
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like fog. It is harmful to breathe and is caused by smoke and other pollutants in the air.
Punjab -: Punjab is a region in Pakistan, not to be confused with the Indian state of Punjab. It is known for its agriculture and is one of the most populated areas in Pakistan.
Air Quality Index -: The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number used to tell how clean or polluted the air is. A higher number means the air is more polluted and can be harmful to health.
Electric buses and e-bikes -: Electric buses and e-bikes are vehicles that run on electricity instead of petrol or diesel. They are better for the environment because they don’t produce harmful smoke.
Green ring of trees -: A ‘green ring’ of trees means planting lots of trees around a city. Trees help clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.