Introduction:
Traders in Lahore are facing a dire situation as they accuse the police of forcibly closing their businesses amidst a smog emergency in Punjab. This has resulted in financial losses and frustration among the traders who feel their concerns are being ignored.
What is Happening in Lahore?
Lahore, along with several other cities in Punjab, is currently experiencing dangerous levels of smog, with PM 2.5 levels exceeding the recommended guidelines provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). In response to this environmental crisis, the provincial government has declared a smog lockdown, enforcing closures in eight cities, including Lahore. Initially, the markets were allowed to operate only on Fridays, but a complete closure of businesses was mandated from the 24th to the 26th of November.
The Agreement with the Commissioner
To address the plight of traders, Anjam Tajan leader, Nir, claimed to have reached an agreement with the Lahore commissioner to keep businesses open on the 9th. This was an attempt to counter the smog lockdown imposed by the police, which was forcing businesses to close. However, it seems that the police have violated the terms of the agreement by ordering shock closures of businesses on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of November.
Exemption for Essential Services
In an effort to ensure the smooth functioning of essential services, the government has issued a notification exempting pharmacies, medical facilities, and petrol pumps from the forced closure. The Commissioner of Lahore has made it clear that these services are crucial and shouldn't be affected by the smog lockdown. Citizens facing any issues during this time can now report them directly to the deputy commissioner's office, which is responsible for addressing their concerns.
Reporting Issues for Effective Resolution
It is important for citizens to report any issues they encounter during this smog lockdown. By alerting the deputy commissioner's office, problems can be addressed more effectively, ensuring a smoother and fairer process for everyone involved. The authorities need to be made aware of the challenges faced by the traders and take steps to find a balanced solution that considers the health risks posed by the smog as well as the economic impact on businesses.
Conclusion:
The ongoing smog emergency in Lahore has put traders in a difficult position, with many feeling the financial strain of forced closures. While essential services have been exempted, a clear resolution needs to be reached to address the concerns of traders and ensure fair enforcement of the smog lockdown. Citizens should report any issues they face, and authorities should take proactive steps to find a balanced approach that safeguards public health while minimizing the impact on businesses.
0 Comments