In response to Lahore’s deteriorating air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a concerning 150, the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has instructed the Education Department to revise school start times in the provincial capital. Starting October 28, school timings will be delayed, with classes beginning no earlier than 8:45 am. This revised schedule will be effective until January 31, 2025.
The EPA’s directive also mandates a suspension of all outdoor school activities to reduce children’s exposure to harmful pollutants. Instead, students are to assemble indoors, minimizing their time spent in open air.
In addition, authorities are urging the public to take precautions to protect against pollution-related health risks. Recommended measures include wearing protective masks outdoors and regularly checking air quality updates through the Punjab Environment Protection Department’s app.
The initiative aims to shield students from adverse health effects and underscores the urgent need for public awareness around air pollution.
 reaching a concerning 150, the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has instructed the Education Department to revise school start times in the provincial capital. Starting October 28, school timings will be delayed, with classes beginning no earlier than 8:45 am. This revised schedule will be effective until January 31, 2025.){kind=link}