The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced the closure of all universities and colleges in Lahore and Multan in response to the worsening smog conditions.

According to the official notification, educational institutions are required to transition to online classes to ensure the safety of students.

The HEC stated that all schools across Punjab, except those in Murree, will remain closed until November 24. In addition to the closures, the Punjab government has imposed restrictions on outdoor activities to help mitigate the smog’s impact.

Citizens are advised to limit unnecessary outdoor exposure and to use masks when outside.

Previously, the Punjab government had implemented a complete lockdown in Lahore and Multan for three days a week due to increasing smog levels.

Senior Minister for Information and Environment Protection, Marriyum Aurangzeb, highlighted the serious health risks associated with smog, likening it to the dangers posed by COVID-19.

She emphasized the need for immediate precautions to protect public health.

The lockdown will be enforced from Friday to Sunday, with air quality being monitored on the following days. If conditions worsen, additional lockdown measures may be implemented earlier.

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Furthermore, a ban on construction activities in Lahore and Multan has been imposed for one week starting November 16.

Marriyum Aurangzeb also reported that the smog has led to a surge in respiratory issues, affecting over 600,000 people in Punjab within a week and resulting in 65,000 hospitalizations.

In response to the health crisis, the Health Department has been directed to take prompt action, including extending outpatient department hours and ramping up emergency services.

Additionally, authorities have intensified efforts to enforce early market closures to combat smog conditions.