Smog Could Severely Disrupt Daily Life, Warns Maryam Aurangzeb

Lahore: Punjab’s Senior Minister **Maryam Aurangzeb** has warned that smog could **severely disrupt daily life and economic activity**, adding that the provincial government is taking **practical steps to combat air pollution**.

Speaking at **Kinnaird College Lahore**, Aurangzeb said that for the **first time in Punjab’s history**, a **ban on plastic bags** has been imposed. She emphasized that **public cooperation** is essential to control air pollution.

“We must eliminate the root causes of smog and keep our environment clean,” she stated, noting that **measures have been taken to improve the Air Quality Index (AQI)**.

The minister further said that **brick kilns have been converted to zigzag technology**, and a **Smog War Room** has been established across Punjab to monitor the situation. A **dedicated helpline** has also been launched for reporting violations.

Aurangzeb added that the Punjab government has also started a **public awareness campaign** to promote environmental cleanliness and sustainable practices.