The Punjab government presented a new smog mitigation policy to the Lahore High Court on Monday, introducing wedding restrictions during peak smog months as part of wider anti-pollution measures.
Advocate General Punjab revealed that starting next year, residents will not be permitted to hold weddings from October to December.
In court, the advocate general announced that the government had, for the first time, allocated a dedicated budget for anti-smog initiatives.
This policy is designed to lower pollution through seasonal restrictions, such as limiting weddings—events typically associated with high traffic and energy use—during the months with the poorest air quality.
The court praised the government, saying, “This administration has implemented better measures than previous governments.”
The court recommended expanding the policy to other districts and lauded efforts to distribute super seeders to farmers as a step towards sustainable practices.
It also noted that in other countries, shops close by 5 PM to reduce emissions, in contrast to Pakistan, where businesses often stay open late into the night.
The judge proposed implementing a one-dish restriction for wedding celebrations and reducing these events to one day rather than the traditional three.
The hearing was adjourned until November 15, with the court urging the government to consider a long-term smog policy.
Punjab is currently experiencing severe smog, with Lahore ranking as the most polluted city globally. Recent data shows Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) at an alarming 588 on average—almost 74 times the World Health Organization’s recommended limit.
AQI levels on Monday ranged from 565 to 1,045 in different parts of Lahore, a significant drop from the record 1,900 seen earlier in the month.
An AQI score of 0-50 is considered good. The main pollutant, PM2.5, consists of fine particulate matter, which is hazardous due to its microscopic size, measuring less than 2.5 micrometres—about 3% of the thickness of human hair.
These fine particles are light and remain in the air for long periods, posing an increased risk of inhalation. They can bypass the body’s natural defenses, penetrate deeply into the lungs, and even enter the bloodstream, potentially causing fatal health issues.
As Punjab implements these initial measures, Lahore’s residents are advised to minimize outdoor activities, use air purifiers if possible, and wear masks to limit exposure to air pollutants. The Punjab Environmental Department may adjust lockdown measures as needed.
