‘Smart lockdown’ imposed in Lahore, six other Punjab districts to cut smog, Pink eye cases

The Punjab government on Tuesday declared a smart lockdown in seven districts of the province, including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, and Narowal, to tackle the escalating air pollution levels and an alarming increase in Conjunctivitis cases. The smart lockdown will be in effect for 15 days, starting from November 7, 2023. During this time, all educational institutions, markets, shopping malls, and wedding halls will remain closed. However, essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies, and petrol pumps will remain open. The decision to impose a smart lockdown was taken after the Punjab government received reports of a significant increase in the number of Conjunctivitis cases in the 

Province.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the clear membrane (conjunctiva) that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. The government has also raised the red flag over the escalating threat of air pollution in the province. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore has been hovering in the hazardous range for several days now. The government has urged people to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves from air pollution and Conjunctivitis. These precautions include: Wearing a mask when outdoors Washing hands frequently Avoiding contact with infected people Using clean water and soap to wash eyes The government has also said that it will be taking strict action against those who violate the smart lockdown restrictions. Yes, that is correct. The Punjab government on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, imposed a "smart lockdown" in seven districts, including Lahore, to address the worsening air pollution and the alarming rise in conjunctivitis cases. The other affected districts are Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, and Narowa. 

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 The decision to impose a smart lockdown was made after the Punjab Health Department issued a notification highlighting the escalating threat to public health posed by the deteriorating air quality and the rising number of conjunctivitis cases. The notification cited the high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels recorded in these districts, which significantly exceed the safe limits. Under the smart lockdown, the following restrictions will be enforced in the affected districts: * **Closure of non-essential businesses:** All non-essential businesses, including markets, shopping malls, and restaurants, will be closed. * **Restriction on movement:** Movement of people will be restricted, with only one person per vehicle allowed to travel for essential purposes. * **Ban on gatherings:** All gatherings, social, religious, or otherwise, will be banned in public and private spaces. * **Exemptions:** Essential services, such as healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and grocery stores, will be exempted from the lockdown restrictions. The government has also advised residents to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from the harmful effects of air pollution and conjunctivitis. These measures include: * **Wearing masks:** Wearing masks outdoors, especially in areas with high pollution levels, is essential to protect the respiratory system. * **Frequent handwashing:** Regular handwashing with soap and water is crucial to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis. * **Avoiding crowded places:** Avoiding crowded areas can help reduce the risk of contracting conjunctivitis. * **Seeking medical attention:** If experiencing symptoms of conjunctivitis, such as red, itchy eyes, or discharge, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. 

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 The Punjab government is closely monitoring the situation and will adjust the lockdown measures as needed. The government has also urged citizens to cooperate with the authorities to effectively combat the air pollution crisis and the spread of conjunctivitis.