As Lahore battles one of the highest smog levels in the world, new environmental regulations are being enforced to control pollution from open-air BBQ restaurants, a significant contributor to the city’s worsening air quality. With Lahore’s AQI reaching hazardous levels, the Punjab Environmental Protection Department has stepped in to regulate open BBQ setups, enforcing strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to reduce emissions and curb the pollution crisis.
Why Target Open-Air BBQ Spots?
Open-air BBQs, which produce significant smoke, are now under scrutiny as contributors to Lahore’s critical air pollution issues. With smog levels climbing each winter, these eateries have become a focal point in pollution control efforts. Imran Hameed, Director General of the Environmental Protection Department Punjab, highlighted the necessity of strict measures to address this preventable pollution source.
New SOPs for BBQ Establishments: What’s Changing?
The new regulations, effective from November 20 to January 31, 2025, require open-air BBQ establishments to adopt pollution control measures that could drastically reduce their emissions. Here’s a closer look at the SOPs:
- Installation of Proper Chimneys and Exhaust Systems
Restaurants are now required to install proper chimneys and exhaust systems. These additions are designed to direct and control smoke emissions, preventing it from spreading directly into the city’s air. - Smoke Filtering BBQ Hoods
BBQ hoods must be equipped with filters that trap smoke particles. This filtration reduces the amount of particulate matter released, a key step in minimizing the immediate environmental impact of BBQ setups. - Mandatory Wet Showering Systems
The use of wet showering systems at BBQ sites is also now compulsory. These systems spray a fine mist that captures particles from the smoke, helping to reduce emissions before they leave the restaurant area.
‘Red Alert’ for Lahore’s Air Quality
The urgency of these regulations comes amid a red alert for Lahore. Smog levels are anticipated to spike from November 6 to 8, leading the Punjab Environment Department to issue health warnings for residents. As of 10:00 AM, Lahore’s AQI had reached a hazardous 261—an alarming figure that surpasses World Health Organization guidelines by over 40 times, ranking Lahore as the most polluted city globally.
The situation is even more severe in certain neighborhoods:
- Gulberg: AQI at 515
- Defence Phase 8: AQI at 424
- DHA Phase 5: AQI at 416
These readings indicate a critical need for action, especially as such high pollution levels pose immediate risks to public health, contributing to respiratory issues, heart disease, and other serious health problems.
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Why These Measures Matter
The new SOPs reflect an urgent need to minimize all possible sources of pollution. Reducing emissions from BBQ setups might seem like a small change, but given the scale of BBQ establishments across Lahore, it can have a measurable impact on air quality. With residents facing hazardous AQI levels, every measure that mitigates pollution counts.
What Residents Can Do
Alongside these regulations, residents can take actions to protect themselves and contribute to the fight against smog:
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Stay indoors as much as possible, especially during high-smog days.
- Wear Protective Masks: High-quality masks, like N95s, can help reduce exposure to harmful particles.
- Reduce Personal Emissions: Carpooling, reducing wood burning, and limiting vehicle use can contribute to air quality improvements.
Conclusion
Lahore’s smog crisis demands both regulatory action and public participation. The Punjab Environmental Protection Department’s new SOPs are a step in the right direction, addressing a local pollution source that can be controlled. As these new regulations take effect, residents, businesses, and the government must work together to make Lahore’s air safer for everyone.
Stay updated on Lahore’s air quality and take measures to protect your health. Share this article to help spread awareness about these important new SOPs and join the fight against smog
