LAHORE – Punjab government announced re-opening schools and colleges across the region from November 19, except in Lahore and Multan divisions, where air quality remains worst.
A notification issued in this regard said the classes would start no earlier than 8:45 am, and all students, teachers, and staff must wear facemasks. Outdoor and extracurricular activities remain banned, and class times will be staggered to reduce traffic congestion. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized that while education is important, protecting children’s health is the top priority.
Smog Holidays Update in Punjab
“Pursuant to order dated 18.11.2024 of Director General Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Government of the Punjab and in continuation of this department’s earlier notifications dated 15.11.2024, all Educational Institutions (Public & Private) in the province of the Punjab except Lahore and Multan divisions shall be opened w.e.f 19.11.2024 (Tuesday) with physical presence of students/staff with following restriction /precautionary measures: i. All the educational institutions in these district shall observe school opening timings not before 8:45 AM. ii. All the students/staff shall wear face masks. iii. There shall be a complete ban on outdoor sports and outdoor co-curricular activities till further orders. iv. All educational institutions shall introduce class wise school closing timing to avoid traffic congestion”, the notification said.
Smog Emergency
The provincial government declared an emergency in Lahore and Multan due to dangerously high smog levels, implementing a weekend lockdown and other measures such as halting construction, closing schools, and promoting afforestation.
These actions aim to reduce health risks from hazardous air quality, which has become a seasonal problem. While short-term disruptions are expected, the government’s long-term focus on ecological restoration offers hope for a sustainable solution.
Update on schools reopening date in Punjab as smog situation eases
