Amid rising concerns over worsening air pollution, the Punjab government has extended the closure of educational institutions to include five more divisions due to severe smog conditions. From November 13 to 17, schools and colleges in Sargodha, Rawalpindi, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, and Sahiwal will remain closed following a directive from the Environmental Protection Department. This decision affects all educational facilities, including schools, academies, and tuition centers, for students from nursery through grade 12.
These recent closures build on previous measures that were already in effect in the Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad divisions. The ongoing shutdowns are part of the government’s broader strategy to protect public health amid the dense smog that continues to engulf the region.
Lahore, one of the hardest-hit cities, has implemented additional measures to curb pollution exposure. From November 11 to 17, the district administration has prohibited all outdoor activities, including sports events, gatherings, and outdoor dining. However, religious gatherings have been given an exemption according to a notice issued by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Lahore.
Further restrictions include the mandatory closure of shops, markets, and shopping malls by 8 PM. Exceptions to this rule have been made for essential services such as medical stores, laboratories, petrol stations, and grocery outlets, which will continue operating beyond the designated closing time.
In an effort to combat the worsening pollution levels, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has intensified its operations to wash trees and plants along green belts and main roads across Lahore. This initiative is aimed at reducing dust particles and pollutants that contribute to the city’s already deteriorating air quality.
The DC of Lahore has also urged citizens to limit time spent outdoors and to wear masks to minimize exposure to harmful pollutants. These precautionary measures are intended to protect residents from the significant health risks posed by the current smog levels.
