The Punjab government has announced the reopening of schools in Lahore and Multan starting tomorrow, November 20, following a period of closure due to hazardous air quality levels. The decision was confirmed by Environment Department Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh through an official notification.
As schools resume in-person classes, several health and safety measures will be implemented to protect students and staff. Key guidelines include:
- School Timings: Schools will open no earlier than 8:45 AM.
- Mask Mandate: Both students and teachers are required to wear masks throughout the school day.
- Outdoor Activities Ban: All outdoor sports and co-curricular activities will remain suspended.
The Environment Department has emphasized the importance of adhering to these guidelines to mitigate the effects of smog and air pollution. Recent reports indicate a slight improvement in the toxic smog levels in Lahore and other cities across Punjab.
In addition to the reopening of schools, the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore has issued a notification suspending all sports, exhibitions, and events, as well as outdoor dining at restaurants. However, religious gatherings are exempt from these restrictions.
Further measures include the closure of shops, markets, and malls by 8 PM, with exceptions for medical stores, labs, petrol pumps, and grocery stores. Large department stores are allowed to keep only their grocery and medical sections open.
The Deputy Commissioner has urged citizens to take precautions during the smog, advising against unnecessary outdoor activities and stressing the importance of mask usage to ensure public safety.
