Pakistan: Restrictions and closures remain in place across parts of Punjab Province due to severe air pollution as of Nov. 8 /update 1

Emergency measures to tackle severe air pollution remain in place across parts of Punjab Province as of Nov. 8. Officials recorded the highest-ever air quality index of 1900 on the outskirts of Lahore close to the India border Nov. 3, greatly exceeding the benchmark of 300 considered "dangerous" by the World Health Organization (WHO). Further dangerously high air pollution levels have been recorded across various parts of the province in recent days, with Multan, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala amongst the other worst affected cities. Due to the severe air pollution, authorities closed schools across Lahore Nov. 3-9 and provincial officials announced the closure of all schools and colleges across 18 districts of the province Nov. 7-17. Residents are required to wear masks and half of office workers are required to work from home. Citizens have been urged to stay indoors, keep doors and windows shut, and avoid unnecessary travel. Other measures include a ban on rickshaws and a halt in construction activities in parts of Lahore. Markets across Punjab have been directed to close by 20:00. More than 900 people have been hospitalized across the province due to respiratory issues, eye irritation, and other smog-related health issues.

Business and transport disruptions may occur. Supply chain delays are possible, especially for time-sensitive deliveries. Air pollution could result in reduced visibility; flight disruptions are possible at Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE). Officials may close sections of roadways due to reduced visibility and require trains to travel slower in some areas until air quality improves.