Lahore: In light of the worsening air quality and persistent smog across Punjab, the School Education Department (SED) has revised the operational hours for all public and private schools in the province. The new schedule, effective immediately, aims to reduce students’ exposure to hazardous air during peak smog hours.
According to the official notification, the morning shift will now begin at 8:45 a.m. and conclude at 1:30 p.m., while the evening shift will run from 12:45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The decision comes as health experts warn of the severe impact of smog on children’s respiratory health, including increased risks of asthma, bronchitis, and other complications.
A spokesperson for the School Education Department said, “The health and safety of our students is our foremost priority. This temporary measure is essential to protect children from the harmful effects of smog during their commute and school hours. All school administrations are instructed to ensure strict compliance until further notice.”
The directive also advises schools to suspend all outdoor sports and physical education activities until air quality conditions improve. Parents have largely welcomed the government’s move, though some expressed concerns over scheduling adjustments and transportation challenges.
Authorities have urged citizens to take precautionary measures such as wearing masks outdoors and avoiding unnecessary travel. The Punjab government continues to monitor the situation closely as part of its broader strategy to mitigate the annual smog crisis.