Lahore: The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has officially declared smog a ‘calamity’ in the province and taken into account swift actions to control it, according to a news source on November 2.
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To address the situation, the PDMA has assigned deputy commissioners the role of relief commissioners across Punjab. In a recent announcement, the PDMA outlined its commitment to taking every necessary measure to tackle the smog problem. As part of these efforts, the provincial administration has imposed a ban on the burning of crop residues throughout the province.
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Moreover, the caretaker Punjab government, in a high-level session chaired by Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Mohsin Naqvi, made crucial decisions regarding schools, colleges, and public transport amidst the smog emergency. Contrary to expectations, schools, colleges, and public transport will remain operational during this period. Environmental experts informed CM Naqvi that shutting down these institutions and public transport would not significantly impact the smog situation. Instead, the authorities have opted for an extensive awareness campaign targeting the general public and educational institutions to mitigate the adverse effects of smog.