Due to an improvement in the air quality, the Punjab government has decided to resume all outdoor activities across the province, effective from November 22, 2024. These activities include a wide range of public attractions and events, such as:
– Parks (both public and private)
– Zoos
– Playgrounds
– Historical sites and monuments
– Museums
– Sports at lakes and parks
– Outdoor sports events
– Exhibitions and festivals
However, in certain major urban districts — Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala — there are additional restrictions on commercial activity. In these areas, shops and markets will be required to close by 8 PM every week. There are some exceptions to this, though. Pharmacies, grocery stores, petrol pumps, and utility services will remain open beyond this time limit.
For large stores (such as shopping malls and hypermarkets), only the grocery and pharmacy sections will remain operational. Other non-essential sections or departments of these stores will be closed after 8 PM.
This measure is part of an effort to manage air quality and reduce pollution, while still allowing people to enjoy outdoor activities and ensuring that essential services remain accessible.
The notification regarding these new rules has been issued by Dr. Imran Hamid Shaikh, who is the Director General of the Environment Protection Agency in Punjab.
