Lahore’s smog crisis just took a big step with Punjab’s latest decision—students in special schools will get a three-month break from November 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025, thanks to the thickening smog blanket across the city. This move came right from the top, with Environment Department Director General Dr. Imran Hameed Sheikh confirming the news in an official notification on Thursday. It’s a response to the worsening air quality that has been lingering, impacting daily life and health in the provincial capital.
The announcement means all special education institutions, whether government or private, will stay closed for three months. Now, these are not just any schools but specifically those dealing with special education, where students already face unique challenges. To make sure these students don’t fall behind, the government is asking schools to shift to online classes. It’s a way to keep the learning going, even if it’s remote. The directive points out that online classes should cover the regular syllabus, aiming to minimize disruption to education.
This decision also underscores the increasing concern about Lahore’s environment. The city’s air has been getting worse each year, and measures like this may become more common if the smog doesn’t improve. Parents and teachers are now left preparing for the online shift while hoping for clearer skies in Lahore soon.
