With smog levels reducing in Punjab, the provincial government has eased restrictions on recreational activities and other commercial operations.
A notification issued by DG Environment Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh announced that recreational places across the province will reopen tomorrow.
Parks, zoos, playgrounds, and outdoor sports and recreational activities have been allowed to reopen, with operating hours extended until 8pm. Additionally, all kinds of festivals and exhibitions will be allowed to resume.
Also Read: Punjab to close markets, restaurants at 8pm from today
Bakeries have also been allowed to operate after 8pm. However, the government has retained early closing hours for markets in major cities, including Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala. All shops, shopping malls, and markets will close at 8pm on weekdays as well as Saturdays and Sundays.
Exceptions have been made for essential service providers, such as pharmacies, tandoors, departmental stores, and grocery shops, which are allowed to operate without time restrictions.
Also Read: Lahore High Court orders markets to close at 8pm
On Nov 11, markets in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Multan divisions were ordered to close at 8pm, as per orders of the Lahore High Court. Environment Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh issued a notification declaring that all shopping malls, shops, and restaurants in these divisions must adhere to the new timings. The restrictions were set to remain in effect until Nov 17, but were later extended.
The directive also banned outdoor dining at restaurants and public gatherings such as festivals and concerts across the affected divisions. However, pharmacies, medical stores, laboratories, and bakeries were exempted from the restriction. Major department stores could also keep their grocery sections open.
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