The Punjab government has announced temporary school closures across the province due to increasing smog levels, affecting schools from primary to higher secondary levels, including O and A Levels. This measure, aimed at protecting students and staff, will see educational institutions switching to online classes until November 17, 2024. The decision, outlined in a government notification, also mandates mask-wearing in public areas to safeguard health.
Smog Emergency: Schools Closed, Online Classes Implemented
- Dates of Closure: Schools will be closed from November 7 to November 17, 2024.
- Affected Institutions: All public and private schools, private tuition centers, and O/A level classes up to grade 12.
- Online Classes: Educational institutions will shift to online teaching modes during this period.
This decision impacts several districts within Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan, and is part of a larger initiative to address the hazardous air quality.
Smog-Control Efforts and Air Quality Monitoring
At a press conference in Lahore, Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized the government’s focus on controlling smog, with agencies actively monitoring the Air Quality Index (AQI) through a high-tech control room. The AQI has crossed alarming levels, especially in cities like Lahore, where it has exceeded 1,000.
Smog and Its Main Causes
The minister pointed out two primary contributors to the current smog crisis:
- Crop Residue Burning: Farmers burning crop residues have worsened smog conditions.
- Plastic Bag Violations: Despite a ban, the use of plastic bags continues to add to pollution.
Regions Affected by School Closures
The directive affects the following areas:
| Division | Districts |
|---|---|
| Lahore | Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib |
| Gujranwala | Gujranwala, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal |
| Faisalabad | Faisalabad, Chiniot, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh |
| Multan | Multan, Lodhran, Vehari, Khanewal |
Additional Measures to Combat Smog
In addition to school closures, the Punjab government has announced several measures to limit the impact of smog on public health and work environments:
- Mask Mandate: Masks are required in all public spaces.
- Reduced On-Site Workforce: Government and private offices can operate with only 50% of staff on-site.
- Virtual Meetings: All government offices are encouraged to hold virtual meetings instead of in-person gatherings.
Health Advisory and Precautions
The minister emphasized the importance of wearing masks, as the smog contains harmful pollutants like methane. She urged the public, especially young children, to stay indoors as much as possible and use masks when going outside to reduce inhalation of toxic particles.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s swift actions, including school closures and a mandate for masks, aim to protect public health amid rising smog levels. These measures, combined with smog-control initiatives, reflect a strong commitment to managing air quality and ensuring the well-being of residents.