Copyright pakistantoday
LAHORE: The disparity in school timing adjustments between public and private institutions in Lahore amid the ongoing hazardous smog situation has raised significant concerns among parents and educators. As of October 28, 2025, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stands at 206, categorizing the air quality as “very unhealthy” according to global standards. This level of pollution poses serious health risks, particularly to children and vulnerable populations. In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Punjab government has revised school timings for public schools, setting the new schedule from 8:45 AM to 1:30 PM, effective from October 27. This decision aims to minimize students’ exposure to the most polluted hours of the day. However, private schools have not been mandated to adopt these revised timings. This inconsistency has led to questions about the government’s commitment to safeguarding the health of all students, regardless of the type of institution they attend. While the government has issued a general directive, it appears to be more focused on public schools, leaving private institutions to decide independently. This situation underscores a broader issue of equity in public health policy implementation. The lack of uniformity in school timing adjustments could potentially expose private school students to prolonged periods of hazardous air quality, increasing their risk of respiratory and other health problems. Experts advocate for a standardized approach that includes both public and private schools in the revised timing regulations. Such a measure would ensure comprehensive protection for all students and demonstrate a unified governmental response to the smog crisis.
