Amid worsening air quality across Punjab, concerns are mounting over whether the provincial government will announce early winter vacations for schools this year. The speculation follows a severe smog alert issued by the Meteorological Department, warning of hazardous pollution levels in major cities, particularly Lahore.
Officials have reported that the air quality index (AQI) in several urban centers has reached alarming levels, significantly above safe limits set by the World Health Organization. With visibility dropping and health experts warning of respiratory risks, parents and teachers are urging authorities to take preventive measures similar to those implemented last year.
According to initial reports, the Punjab Education Department is monitoring the situation closely in consultation with environmental and health authorities. A decision on possible school closures or early vacations is expected soon if smog levels continue to worsen.
Last year, the government announced early winter holidays in Lahore, Faisalabad, and other districts after pollution reached critical levels, forcing outdoor activities and school schedules to halt. Officials fear that this year’s conditions could lead to a repeat scenario, disrupting the academic calendar once again.
Environmental experts say the main causes of Punjab’s smog include crop burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution. The combination of these factors, along with weather conditions trapping pollutants close to the ground, has turned the air toxic across much of the province.
Health professionals are advising citizens to wear masks, use air purifiers, and avoid outdoor exposure during early mornings and late evenings when smog concentrations are highest. Children, elderly citizens, and those with asthma or heart conditions are particularly at risk.
Meanwhile, the provincial government has also begun reviewing long-term strategies to address recurring smog crises. Officials have indicated that stricter enforcement of anti-burning laws and improved vehicle emission controls are being considered as part of the plan.
This debate over early vacations comes as another provincial education issue gains attention the KP government investigates poor exam results, highlighting broader concerns over the education sector’s performance nationwide.
With pollution levels showing no signs of improvement, education authorities in Punjab may soon be forced to make a difficult call between academic continuity and student safety.
