Lahore: The Punjab government has announced the closure of schools in districts severely affected by the ongoing smog until November 17, 2024. The decision, made in response to the hazardous air quality levels, aims to safeguard the health of students and staff across the province.
According to a statement from the Punjab School Education Department, the closure will affect both public and private schools in cities such as
, Faisalabad, Multan, and Sargodha, which have been witnessing dangerously high levels of air pollution. The smog has been exacerbated by ongoing crop burning, industrial emissions, and adverse weather conditions.
The provincial authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities and to stay indoors as much as possible during this period. Health officials have also warned about the increased risk of respiratory problems, particularly for children and the elderly, due to the toxic air.
“We understand the impact this closure will have on students’ education, but their safety is our priority. We will continue to monitor the air quality and make further decisions accordingly,” said a spokesperson for the Punjab government.
The government has also activated emergency measures, including the distribution of face masks and air purifiers in public spaces, as part of efforts to mitigate the effects of smog. As the situation continues to worsen, the government is calling for long-term solutions to address the root causes of pollution and reduce the frequency of such environmental crises in the future. The Express Tribune, Dawn News, Geo News, ARY News, The News International, BBC News, Reuters, Al Jazeera, CNN
