Local officials in Lahore are contemplating a three-day school closure and possible schedule adjustments as the city faces severe air quality issues. Pending an environmental review, schools might shut down on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays to mitigate health risks.
A Punjab Environmental Protection Agency spokesperson indicated a decision would likely come after a smog-focused meeting in early November. During this session, authorities will evaluate the conditions and finalize their strategy.
As measured by IQAir, Lahore’s air quality index (AQI) currently sits at 208, positioning it among the world’s most polluted cities. AQI levels within Lahore vary, with significant readings noted at several locations, including the U.S. Consulate, peaking at 322.
As air quality levels degrade, Lahore has become Pakistan’s most polluted city and ranks second globally.
In response to the pollution, the Punjab government recently initiated a ‘green lockdown’ in the most affected areas of Lahore. This new regulation will halt construction activities, ban auto-rickshaws, restrict commercial generators, and prohibit outdoor barbecues after 8 pm in designated zones.
Read: Lahore Implements Green Lockdown Due to Severe Smog
Moreover, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz plans to address the smog issue more broadly by communicating with the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab. Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has also called a special session to deliberate on the worsening smog conditions.
Read: Maryam Nawaz Calls for Cross-Border Efforts to Tackle Smog Crisis in Punjab
