Pakistan’s Punjab government announced a ban on wedding ceremonies from October to December as part of its new anti-smog policy. The decision, presented in the Lahore High Court, aims to curb pollution caused by increased vehicle usage during weddings.
Punjab’s Advocate General informed the court that a dedicated budget has been allocated for smog control for the first time.
The policy includes distributing Super Seeder machines to farmers to prevent stubble burning, a significant contributor to air pollution.
The court commended the government’s efforts, suggesting limits on the number of wedding ceremonies and the implementation of a ‘one dish’ policy to further reduce environmental impact.
Pakistan is grappling with severe air pollution, particularly in Punjab, where cities like Lahore are facing record-high levels of smog. In early November 2024, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached over 1,000, a hazardous level that has led to the closure of schools and businesses.
The high pollution has resulted in increased hospital admissions due to respiratory issues. Authorities have initiated emergency measures, including a “smog war room,” and are distributing machinery to reduce stubble burning by farmers, a significant contributor to the smog problem
