Smog Triggers School Closures in Five Additional Divisions

Amid escalating air pollution, the Punjab government has announced the closure of educational institutions in five additional divisions due to worsening smog conditions.

Schools and colleges in Sargodha, Rawalpindi, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, and Sahiwal divisions will now be closed from November 13 to 17, following an order from the Environmental Protection Department.

This closure affects all schools, academies, and tuition centers for students from nursery to grade 12.

Previously imposed shutdowns in the Gujranwala, Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad divisions remain in place as part of the government’s measures to address health risks posed by heavy smog.

Lahore, particularly affected by pollution, has implemented further restrictions. The district administration recently banned outdoor activities from November 11 to 17, halting all sports, events, and outdoor dining in an effort to reduce exposure. Religious gatherings are exempt from these restrictions, according to a notification by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lahore.

Furthermore, shops, markets, and malls will close by 8 PM, with exceptions for essential services such as medical stores, labs, petrol stations, and grocery outlets.

To further combat pollution, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has accelerated efforts to wash trees and plants along green belts and roadways in Lahore. Citizens have been urged by the DC to limit outdoor activities and wear masks to reduce health risks associated with the smog.

News Courtesy:Pro Pakistani