In response to rising smog levels, the Punjab government has announced that markets in four major divisions—Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Multan—will close at 8 p.m. starting today. This decision follows orders from the Lahore High Court aimed at controlling pollution.

Environment Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh issued a notification mandating that all shopping malls, shops, and restaurants in these divisions adhere to the new closing times. The restrictions will remain in effect until November 17.

The directive also prohibits outdoor dining at restaurants and public gatherings, such as festivals and concerts, across the affected divisions. However, pharmacies, medical stores, laboratories, and bakeries are exempt from these restrictions. Major department stores may keep their grocery sections open, according to the order.

The environment department stated that the decision, effective from November 11 to 17, was made due to the increasing number of patients affected by smog.

On November 8, the Lahore High Court issued new orders as part of a series of measures to address the escalating smog levels in Punjab. Justice Shahid Karim, presiding over a hearing on citizen petitions for smog control, directed that all markets in the province must close by 8 p.m., with complete closures on Sundays.

The court emphasized that smoke-emitting vehicles and heavy trucks entering Lahore and surrounding areas are significant sources of pollution. Consequently, it ordered a ban on smoke-emitting vehicles on motorways and ring roads.

Additionally, the court urged the provincial administration to restrict the entry of trucks and trawlers into the city, identifying them as major contributors to smog and environmental pollution.