Punjab government on Monday decided to reopen educational institutions across the province, except Lahore and Multan divisions, starting tomorrow after improvement in the smog situation in the province.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stressed children's education is a top priority, their health cannot be compromised. She commended the public for their cooperation in the government’s efforts to combat the severe smog, which had previously reached alarming levels in various districts.

According to environmental experts, the recent rainfall in the upper regions of Punjab has also contributed to the improvement in air quality, with most districts now experiencing a significant reduction in pollution levels.

The shift in winds has helped clear the air, but precautionary measures remain in place to safeguard the health of students, teachers, and staff.

Precautionary measures and adjustments

The Punjab government has issued a series of notifications to ensure that educational activities proceed safely under the improved air quality conditions. The measures include:

Mandatory mask-wearing: All students, teachers, and staff members will be required to wear masks while on school premises
No outdoor activities: Outdoor sports and extracurricular activities will be banned until further notice, to minimize exposure to lingering pollutants
Adjusted school timings: Separate holiday timings will be scheduled to avoid traffic congestion around school premises
Delayed school timings: Schools will not begin any activities before 9 am

The government has tasked school management with ensuring the strict implementation of these precautionary measures. Maryam Aurangzeb noted that these difficult decisions were made to protect the lives of students and staff, despite the disruptions caused to their routine.

In her remarks, the provincial minister extended gratitude to the people of Punjab for their support in adhering to government protocols. She also praised the coordinated efforts of various agencies, including the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), local police, district administration officers, and their staff, for their role in improving the air quality and safeguarding public health.

“As a government, we are committed to making difficult choices to protect the lives of our people,” Maryam Aurangzeb said. “At the same time, we cannot forget that children’s education remains essential, but their health is paramount.”