Punjab closes primary schools for a week due to severe smog crisis

In response to deteriorating air quality and worsening smog conditions in Lahore and across Punjab, the provincial government announced a week-long closure of all primary schools up to grade five.

Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb made the announcement, emphasizing the need to prioritize students’ health and safety amid the ongoing environmental crisis.

The decision has been taken at a time when Lahore continues to grapple with severe levels of air pollution, which have reached alarming levels, significantly affecting the health of residents, especially children. Reports show that Lahore consistently ranks among the most polluted cities in the world, requiring urgent action from the authorities.

Maryam Aurangzeb urged parents and guardians to ensure that children stay indoors as much as possible during this period and take necessary precautions such as wearing masks when outdoors. The government is working closely with the Ministry of Environmental Protection to monitor the situation and implement measures to combat smog.

The school closures are a temporary measure to protect the welfare of students while the government seeks to address the root causes of air pollution in the region. As authorities continue to assess the situation, further updates will be provided regarding the reopening of schools and any additional measures that may be implemented to protect public health.