Punjab Government Orders to Close All Schools Amid Smog Crisis

In response to worsening air quality, the Punjab government has announced the closure of educational institutions from primary to higher secondary levels across four divisions, including Lahore. The shutdown, effective from November 7 to 17, affects schools in Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Chiniot, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Multan, Lodhran, Vehari, and Khanewal. Both government and private institutions will transition to online classes for students up to grade 12 and A-level.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb attributed the hazardous smog levels to stubble burning in India, worsened by the prevailing wind patterns. The government has rolled out measures to mitigate the crisis, including:

• Ban on Smoky Vehicles: Prohibiting vehicles with excessive emissions to limit air pollution.
• Closure of Brick Kilns: Temporarily shutting down brick kilns to curb industrial pollutants.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educating the agriculture and industrial sectors on smog control.

The situation has grown increasingly severe, with over 900 people in Lahore seeking medical help for respiratory issues on Tuesday alone. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hit an alarming 1,100, prompting authorities to advise residents to stay indoors and wear masks outdoors.