Lahore, November 2, 2025: The Punjab government has announced new school timings across the province as part of an emergency response to the worsening smog crisis that has severely affected air quality and public health.
Under the new directives issued by the Environment Department, no public or private school will be allowed to open before 8:45 a.m. The measure aims to shield students from early morning exposure to dense smog, particularly in Lahore and other major urban centers.
Officials described the step as a preventive health measure to minimize respiratory and eye-related illnesses among children.
Environment Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh warned that schools violating the new timing order would face strict penalties ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1 million, with repeated violations resulting in the maximum fine and possible administrative action. The directive applies to all educational institutions regardless of size or affiliation and will remain in force until January 31, 2026, as weather experts predict prolonged smog conditions through winter.
The decision comes amid a sharp rise in pollution levels across Lahore, Faisalabad, and adjoining districts, where the Air Quality Index (AQI) has consistently ranged between 300 and 400, placing it in the “hazardous” category. Environmental experts have warned that sustained exposure could lead to long-term respiratory complications, particularly among children and the elderly.
Alongside regulating school hours, the Environment Department has intensified anti-smog operations targeting industrial emissions, vehicular smoke, and crop residue burning. Monitoring has been strengthened in key smog-affected districts to curb airborne pollutants that have drastically reduced visibility and air quality.
Authorities have urged citizens to limit outdoor activity during early morning hours, when smog concentration is highest. Schools have been directed to ensure students wear protective masks and avoid outdoor assemblies until conditions improve.
Health and education departments are jointly conducting awareness campaigns to inform students and parents about smog-related health precautions.
Officials said the revised school schedule reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing student safety and public health, marking a crucial step in Punjab’s efforts to mitigate the worsening environmental crisis this winter.
