Copyright pakobserver
LAHORE – The Punjab School Education Department has announced revised timings for government schools across the province in response to worsening smog conditions. According to the official notification, from Monday to Thursday, schools will operate from 8:45 am to 1:30 pm, while on Fridays, classes will run from 8:45 a.m. to 12:30 pm. The decision follows an earlier statement by Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, who had indicated through social media that school hours would be adjusted to ensure student safety amid deteriorating air quality. Meanwhile, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said that wind patterns coming from India contribute to Lahore’s high pollution levels. She added that the government has implemented several strict measures to reduce smog and protect public health. Air quality in many central districts of Punjab, including Lahore, has reached hazardous levels, making it dangerous to breathe outdoors. On Ravi Road in Lahore, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reportedly surged to 810 in the morning hours — a level considered extremely unhealthy. Environmental experts have advised citizens to wear masks and limit outdoor activities until conditions improve.
