In the midst of a smog emergency in Punjab, Lahore’s traders and police are at odds. Traders accuse the police of going against government directives by forcefully closing businesses during the smog-related lockdown.
حکومت پنجاب کی جانب سےسموگ پر قابو پانے کیلئے
لاہور، شیخوپورہ قصور گوجرانوالہ، نکانہ صاحب، نارووال، حافظ آباد اورسیالکوٹ میں
سمارٹ لاک ڈاؤن كانفاذ@EPCCDpunjab @cmopunjabpk pic.twitter.com/pOIomdxDtS
— Government of Punjab (@GovtofPunjabPK) November 9, 2023
Despite initial rules allowing markets to open on Friday, traders claim a breach of agreement with officials, leading to conflicts with law enforcement. The controversy arises as the government promises to lift the lockdown following recent rain that improved air quality.
The government’s lockdown plan covers the weekend, shutting down markets and various services, except essential ones. The situation intensifies as traders demand adherence to agreements and authorities respond to accusations of defying directives.