Punjab Government Closes Schools Until November 17 Due to Rising Smog

Due to a significant rise in smog, the Punjab government has announced the closure of schools from primary to higher secondary level in Lahore and four other divisions until November 17.

Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, along with Health Minister Imran Nazir, held a press conference stating that the increase in smog is due to polluted air coming from India. Changing wind patterns are causing air pollution to spread across various districts, and the burning of crop residues is contributing to the worsening smoke levels.

Maryam Aurangzeb said that in response to the smog, primary schools will be closed, followed by secondary and higher secondary schools. Schools in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan divisions will shift to online operations.

She added that, under the direction of the Punjab Chief Minister, efforts to combat smog are ongoing. Actions are being taken against vehicles and brick kilns that emit excessive smoke, and special squads have been deployed to address smog in agriculture and industries. The Air Quality Index (AQI) can be monitored through the Green App.

Maryam Aurangzeb also reported that over 900 patients affected by smog were admitted to hospitals in Lahore yesterday. The inhalation of dangerous methane gas due to not wearing masks is a serious concern. This morning, Lahore’s AQI was recorded at over 1100.

She urged citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and to wear masks at all times. The districts of Lahore, Gujranwala, Multan, Kasur, and Sheikhupura are most affected by the smog.