theglobeandmail.com
Pakistan Smog Crisis: Parks, Museums Closed
Record smog in eastern Pakistan forces closures of parks, museums, and markets. Tens of thousands affected by respiratory illnesses.
English
Canada
HealthClimate ChangePublic HealthPakistanPollutionEnvironmental CrisisSmog
Environment Protection Department (Punjab)Save The Children
Sajid BashirDr. Hafeezur RehmanKhuram Gondal
- What long-term solution was suggested to address this recurring problem?
- The Save the Children charity urged the government to implement long-term solutions for pollution to avoid future school closures and health issues. Additional restrictions include an 8 p.m. market closure and limitations on barbecuing and wedding hall operating hours.
- What are the health risks associated with the severe air pollution in Lahore?
- Lahore's air quality index reached over 600, considered hazardous, prompting warnings to wear face masks to avoid lung damage, with doctors comparing the air to smoking dozens of cigarettes daily.
- What additional restrictions were implemented besides the park and museum closures?
- The closures are in addition to pre-existing school and government office closures and aim to keep people indoors to minimize exposure to hazardous pollution levels.
- What emergency measures did Pakistani authorities take in response to the record smog?
- Due to record-breaking smog, authorities in eastern Pakistan closed all parks and museums for 10 days across 18 districts of Punjab province, including Lahore.
- How many people have been affected by respiratory issues and how many students are impacted by school closures?
- Over 30,000 people have received treatment for respiratory ailments in smog-hit districts, and the closures impact the education of over 20 million students in affected areas.