Punjab educational institutions to remain closed till Nov 24

LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced an extension in the closure of all educational institutions, including schools and tuition centres, until November 24 due to worsening smog conditions.

Initially, schools were closed until November 17, but the deteriorating air quality has forced the provincial authorities to extend the shutdown for another week. This decision applies to both public and private institutions as the smog crisis continues to grip Punjab.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore has reached a record high of 1600, placing the city among the most polluted globally. Prolonged exposure to such hazardous levels of air pollution poses significant health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues, prompting the government to prioritise public safety.

The smog, caused by a combination of industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and crop burning, has turned into a persistent crisis for the region. With visibility reduced and health complaints on the rise, the Punjab government has urged residents to limit outdoor activities and adopt protective measures, such as wearing masks and using air purifiers where possible.

The extended closure of educational institutions has left parents and students scrambling to adjust to the situation, with many schools transitioning to online learning. However, concerns remain about the impact on education and the challenges faced by students without access to digital resources.