The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced the closure of bank branches on Friday, November 10, 2023, in Lahore Division and specific districts of Punjab that have been severely affected by smog.

All banks and Micro Finance Banks (MFBs) are required to keep their branches closed in Lahore Division, including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, and Kasur districts, as well as Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sialkot, and Narowal districts on November 10.

This decision is in response to a notification issued by the Punjab government on November 8, 2023. The Punjab government has declared an "environmental and health emergency" for four days, from November 9 to 12, to address the impact of smog.

During this period, various establishments, including markets, shopping malls, restaurants, cinemas, gyms, schools, and both public and private offices, will remain closed in Lahore, Gujranwala, and Hafizabad divisions. Additionally, there will be restricted movement to and from these areas via public and private transport.