The Punjab Education Department has issued a notification changing school timings in response to directives from the Department of Environment.

The change, effective from October 28 to January 31, 2024, is due to Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) reaching 150, indicating unhealthy air quality.

The Punjab Environment Protection Department issued guidelines to address the rising air pollution. These guidelines mandate that schools in Lahore should not begin before 8:45 AM, assemblies should be held in classrooms, and outdoor activities should be suspended.

The Education Department’s notification reflects these guidelines, stating that all public and private schools must not open before 8:45 AM.

The adjusted timings will remain in effect until January 31, 2024.

The Environment Protection Department also advised citizens to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from smog, including wearing masks, keeping windows and doors closed, and minimizing time spent outdoors.

A ban on all types of fireworks has also been imposed in Lahore until January 31, 2024. According to Maryam Aurangzeb, these measures are designed to protect citizens from the negative effects of smog.