LAHORE: Schools across Punjab, except for Lahore and Multan, will reopen tomorrow (Tuesday) as the smog situation in the province has significantly improved. Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed the development in a statement, noting that the air quality has shown noticeable improvement over the past few days.
“The government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has decided to reopen educational institutions in all of Punjab except for the Lahore and Multan divisions,” said Aurangzeb. She emphasized that the decision, while necessary to restore normalcy, was made with public health as a top priority.
“The education of children is vital, but we cannot compromise their health and safety,” she added, urging school administrations to implement precautionary measures to protect students from the lingering effects of pollution.
While smog levels have subsided, they remain at hazardous levels in some parts of the province, prompting the government to maintain caution. Schools in affected regions will operate under adjusted hours, with a ban on outdoor activities to limit exposure.
In a related development, a notification issued by Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, Director General of the Environment Protection Agency, confirmed that schools will begin at 8:45 AM to help minimize exposure to harmful air pollution. The notification also emphasized the continuation of preventive measures to ensure the well-being of students and staff.
As the situation improves, authorities remain vigilant, monitoring air quality to make informed decisions regarding the reopening of schools in Lahore and Multan.
