Lahore Implements New School Timings Due to Smog Crisis
In response to hazardous air quality levels in Lahore, authorities have made significant changes to school schedules across the city. Starting immediately, government schools will open at 8:45 AM, and all morning assemblies will be conducted indoors to minimize students’ exposure to harmful pollutants.
Changes Of School Timings in Lahore:
- School Start Time: 8:45 AM
- Morning Assemblies: Indoors to reduce exposure to smog
- Outdoor Activities: Suspended to protect children from polluted air
On October 23, the Punjab Environment Protection Department issued an urgent directive to institutions, urging them to take immediate action in response to the escalating air pollution levels. The government announced these changes to protect vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, from the damaging effects of smog.
Authorities have also advised the public to take protective measures, including wearing masks and regularly monitoring the Air Quality Index (AQI) through the Environment Protection Department’s app. These measures are essential as pollution levels in Lahore have soared to dangerous levels.
Read More: School Holidays Announced in Punjab Due to Smog
Lahore’s Alarming AQI Levels
On Monday, Lahore recorded an overall AQI of 530, making it the most polluted city in the world. Certain areas, like Gulberg, saw levels exceed 800 AQI, with a shocking peak of 818 AQI, creating a severe health hazard for residents.
Additionally, winds carrying pollution from neighboring India have contributed to Lahore’s deteriorating air quality, causing dangerous breathing conditions for everyone in the city.
Impact on Daily Life
The smog crisis has not only disrupted school schedules but has also affected air travel. A recent private flight from Karachi to Lahore experienced smog even at high altitudes, with the aircraft crew reporting heightened smog levels inside the cabin when descending to 1,000 feet. Due to passengers’ complaints, the flight crew opted for a manual disembarkation instead of using the usual jet bridge.
In response to the smog crisis, officials are exploring options like inducing artificial rain to help clear the pollution from the atmosphere.
Smog Protection Measures:
- Wear masks when going outside.
- Limit outdoor exposure, especially during peak pollution hours.
- Monitor daily AQI levels using the Environment Protection Department’s app.
Important Data Table:
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| New School Opening Time | 8:45 AM |
| Morning Assemblies | Indoors |
| Outdoor Activities | Suspended |
| Overall AQI in Lahore (Oct 23) | 530+ |
| Peak AQI in Gulberg | 818 |
| Main Pollutant Source | Winds from India, local industrial emissions |
| Protective Measures | Wearing masks, monitoring AQI, reducing outdoor exposure |
| Additional Measures | Exploring artificial rain to clear smog |
With Lahore’s smog levels critically high, health experts advise residents to limit outdoor exposure and prioritize their safety until conditions improve. The government monitors the situation closely and is prepared to introduce further measures to protect public health.
What is Smog?
Smog: A form of air pollution caused by a mix of smoke and fog.Main Causes: Vehicle emissions, industrial pollutants, and chemical reactions in the atmosphere.Types of Smog:
- Photochemical Smog: Formed by sunlight reacting with vehicle emissions.
- Sulfurous Smog: Created by burning fossil fuels like coal.
Health Effects: Causes respiratory issues, eye irritation, and long-term heart and lung Problems.
Risk : Particularly harmful to children, the elderly, and those with existing health conditions.
