The Punjab government has introduced a work-from-home policy for office workers in areas heavily affected by smog, as air pollution continues to impact millions. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that public and private offices in cities like Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan will operate with only 50% of staff working on-site to help reduce pollution levels.
The goal of this policy is to minimize exposure to harmful air and reduce traffic, which contributes significantly to smog. In addition, the government has announced school closures in the affected areas and made wearing masks mandatory in smog-prone regions to safeguard public health.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed that schools will stay closed until November 17, with classes moving online. She highlighted that winds from India have worsened the smog in cities such as Multan, Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala.