Copyright pakobserver
LAHORE – The Punjab government has changed school timings in Lahore and other cities of Punjab to safe students from choking smog, with authorities warning that strict action will be taken over non-complaint with revised timetable. A day earlier, DG Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Dr. Imran Hameed Sheikh confirmed that all government and private schools, including those in Lahore, will now open at 8:45.am starting Monday, November 3, 2025. The new schedule will remain effective until January 31, 2026. Officials said the move targets one of the biggest contributors to morning smog, school-hour traffic, which clogs roads and pumps pollutants into the already suffocating air. “By easing the early rush-hour pressure, we expect a noticeable drop in vehicular emissions,” the agency said in its statement. The government has issued a stern warning against violations. Schools flouting the government order could be slapped with hefty fines ranging from Rs1,000 to Rs1 million, depending on the severity of non-compliance. Where to Lodge Complaint As responsible citizens, we should cooperate with the government for implementation of the measures taken by the government for safety of public health. The citizens can play their role by filing complaints against schools, flouting the government orders regarding opening of schools at 8:45am. There are multiple ways to lodge complaints against schools not observing the revised timings. The can file a complaint through chief minister port where they need to Signup (https://crm.punjab.gov.pk/CmccPublic/SignUpPage) in case of first time user. They can also call 0800-02345 to speak to an agent for the complaint. They can also sent an email to the School Education Department via monitoringcell@schools.punjab.gov.pk. The citizens can also sent their complaints to Minister of Education Complaint Portal or tag Rana Sikandar Hayat on X.
