Punjab govt introduces work-from-home policy

Lahore: The Punjab government has implemented a work-from-home policy for public and private sector offices in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan divisions in an effort to address the growing air pollution crisis in the region.

The new policy mandates that workplaces operate at 50% in-person capacity, with the remaining employees working remotely.

The move will reduce commuting-related pollution and minimise exposure to hazardous smog, which has worsened in recent days due to a mix of local emissions and pollutants carried by cross-border winds.

The announcement was made by Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb during a press conference in Lahore, where she outlined the provincial government's comprehensive strategy to mitigate the health risks associated with the worsening air quality.

By limiting the number of employees traveling to work and encouraging remote work, the government hopes to reduce traffic congestion and curtail emissions in heavily affected urban areas.

Additionally, government departments have been directed to use virtual platforms, such as Zoom, for meetings and communications to further facilitate remote work.

She also noted that the ongoing smog crisis has been exacerbated by pollutants drifting from neighboring regions.

The work-from-home policy is expected to remain in place as part of the government’s broader efforts to tackle air pollution, with authorities monitoring air quality and making further adjustments as necessary.