The Punjab Environment Department has revised school timings across the province in an effort to curb rising smog levels, with strict penalties for non-compliance.
According to Punjab’s Director General of Environment, Imran Hamid Sheikh, all public and private schools in the province will not be allowed to open before 8:45 am. He said that institutions violating the order will face fines ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1 million.
The notification has been issued amid hazardous smog levels in Lahore and adjoining areas, prompting the government to enforce new restrictions to reduce environmental pollution.
Imran Hamid Sheikh said that schools found breaching the directive for the first time will be fined between Rs 100,000 and Rs 500,000, while repeated violations could lead to penalties of up to Rs 1 million. The order will remain in effect until January 31, 2026.
He added that the provincial government has intensified measures to control air pollution. From October 19 to 30, Lahore’s Air Quality Index remained between 300 and 400, reaching the “hazardous” category.
