Due to severe smog conditions, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) declared the closure of bank branches on Friday, November 10, 2023, in several districts of Punjab, including the entire Lahore Division.
The SBP’s directive affects banks and Micro Finance Banks (MFBs) in Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sialkot, and Narowal districts.
In response to the environmental crisis, the Punjab government has announced an “environmental and health emergency” from November 9 to 12 in Lahore and surrounding divisions.
The emergency measures entail closing markets, shopping malls, restaurants, cinemas, gyms, schools, and offices. There will also be restricted movement in the affected areas, with limited public and private transport.
Enforcement of Section 144 to Combat Smog
The Punjab government has implemented Section-144 and declared health emergencies in the Lahore division to combat the worsening air quality. This includes closing educational institutions, government and private offices, cinemas, parks, and restaurants in the affected districts. However, essential services like marriage halls, bakeries, pharmacies, public transport, and construction activities will continue to operate. The public, especially children and the elderly are advised to wear masks to protect against smog.
