LAHORE: The Punjab government has issued a notification for four districts of the province to close down the markets by 8 PM, starting today. The notification comes as part of the efforts to reduce the impact of smog on the health of denizens.
According to the notification, markets in Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan and Gujranwala are directed to be closed at 8 PM. The order will stay in force until November 17 in all four districts, the notification said.
Apart from the markets, all outdoor activities will also be banned for the same duration, including sports, and exhibitions etc. Dining in restaurants is also banned after 8 PM in the four districts.
Any violations of the notification will be dealt with under the Punjab Environmental Protection Act.
Medical stores, laboratories, petrol pumps and grocery stores will be exempted from this directive. For major department stores, only the grocery and medical sections will be allowed to remain open, the notification said.
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