Punjab govt orders school closures, remote work for offices amid smog crisis

The Punjab government has ordered the closure of all private and public schools across the province until November 17, shifting half of the staff at private offices to remote work, in response to rising smog and air pollution levels.

Initially, the school closures were limited to eight districts, including Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Multan, Rawalpindi, DG Khan, Sargodha, and Sahiwal. However, new orders have extended the closure province-wide, with an official notification now issued.

The notification stated that all government and private schools will remain closed until November 17. Government-run educational institutions and tuition centers are also instructed to transition to online classes.

According to officials, the decision was made due to the worsening air quality index and the increase in respiratory, eye, and throat issues caused by pollution.

Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat explained that school closures in all districts were necessary due to growing complaints from various areas.

Hayat acknowledged the educational setbacks caused by the closures but emphasised that the decision was made to protect children from serious health risks. 

He added that, recognising the challenges of online learning, alternative strategies are being developed to support students' education during this period.