In a critical effort to safeguard the health of students, the Punjab government has announced a one-week closure of primary schools in Lahore, effective November 4 to 9, due to rising levels of smog and deteriorating air quality.
The decision comes as Lahore grapples with alarming pollution levels, consistently ranking among the most polluted cities in the world. Senior provincial minister Marriyum Aurangzeb highlighted the urgency of this measure, emphasizing the need to prioritize public health, especially for vulnerable children.
Aurangzeb noted that recent shifts in wind patterns from India have exacerbated the smog situation, stating, “This issue cannot be resolved without discussions with India.” She also addressed the politicization of climate diplomacy, urging collaboration over conflict.
In conjunction with the school closures, the government will enforce a strict Green Lockdown, which may include shutting down industries that fail to comply with environmental regulations. Authorities are also ramping up efforts to combat stubble burning, a significant contributor to the city’s air pollution, by targeting farmers who use this method to clear fields for the next planting season.
As Lahore faces this environmental crisis, the government’s swift actions reflect the growing urgency to improve air quality and protect the health of its residents.
