Schools in Faisalabad and Gujranwala divisions of Punjab have reopened today following an improvement in smog conditions. However, schools in Lahore and Multan divisions will remain closed.

Meanwhile, the provincial government has relaxed restrictions on restaurants and hotels, extending their operating hours until 10 PM.

The Punjab School Education Department issued a notification announcing the reopening, but with new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in place. These SOPs mandate that schools will not open before 8:30 AM, all students, teachers, and staff must wear masks, and outdoor sports and extracurricular activities remain prohibited.

School authorities will determine dismissal times based on class schedules. The SOPs apply to all public and private schools.

The provincial government had initially closed schools in major cities on November 6th, later extending the closure until November 24th. The decision to partially reopen reflects the recent improvement in air quality.

Separately, the Environment Department has issued a notification allowing hotels, restaurants, and food outlets to operate until 10 PM. Dine-in, parking lot dining, and takeaway services will be available until this time, with no restrictions on home delivery services.