Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi has said that crop burning in India continues and winds are expected from that direction, which would impact the climate in the country.
While presiding over a high-level meeting of the Punjab Cabinet Anti-Smog Committee on Thursday, all educational institutions will remain closed on Friday and Saturday.
He also stated that the government will subsidize the purchase of electric bikes for 10,000 students in order to reduce the usage of traditional motorbikes, which contribute to air pollution, and that a committee has been created to formalize recommendations. Meanwhile, government employees will also be provided e-bikes on lease.
The CM said that the government is considering artificial rain methods if clouds reach Lahore on November 29.
He said that markets and restaurants will open at 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and all businesses will be closed on Sunday.
"Markets can stay open until late at night. We don't want anyone to experience loss, but they will have to adjust to the circumstances," he added.
According to the Chief Minister of Punjab, offices will stay open on Friday but will close at 3 p.m. on Saturday. He added that these precautions are being taken since the Air Quality Index (AQI) readings are higher in the morning and decrease with time.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has also been inked by the government to erect towers to remove haze in Lahore, according to CM Punjab.
He also urged people to wear masks to protect their health.