Amid rising air pollution, the Punjab government in Pakistan has closed all primary schools for the week due to deplorable air quality in Lahore, aimed at protecting children from hazardous conditions deemed unsafe by the WHO.
“In light of the deteriorating air quality index and under the order dated 03.11.2024 issued by the Director General of the Environmental Protection Agency Punjab, while exercising powers conferred under the Punjab Environmental Protection Act 1997, it is notified that all classes up to 5th grade in all schools (public and private) located in Lahore shall remain closed for one week, from 04.11.2024 to 09.11.2024 (Saturday),” read a notification issued by the provincial education department.
As per the official statement, the closure may be extended if the AQI remains at unsatisfactory levels.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz stated, “The wind from India towards Lahore is carrying the smog to dangerous levels, and this wind is likely to sustain its direction for at least the next week. People should take care of themselves by avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities. The elderly and children should be particularly cautious.”
In response to a query, she mentioned that the government would write to the Foreign Office on Monday to approach Indian authorities for discussions on joint efforts to tackle smog.
Reports indicate that Lahore, a city of 14 million people, has been engulfed by smog, a mix of fog and pollutants generated by low-grade diesel fumes and smoke from stubble burning and winter heating.
The AQI in both Lahore and New Delhi has reached dangerous levels, exceeding 1,000 this past week—well above the 300 level considered hazardous by the WHO.
The AQI in Delhi plunged to 400 on Monday, marking the worst levels this year.
According to the WHO, breathing air with an AQI over 300 is dangerous and can lead to severe health consequences, including strokes, heart disease, lung
cancer, and respiratory diseases.
UNICEF reports that nearly 600 million children in South Asia are exposed to high levels of air pollution. Extended exposure to poor air quality can be fatal for young children.
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