As Lahore faces worsening air quality, the authorities are thinking of extending school holidays to combat the health risks posed by heavy smog. Starting November 2024, Lahore’s schools may shift to a three-day weekend, adding Friday as an official holiday alongside the usual Saturday and Sunday. This potential move aims to minimize students’ exposure to the high pollution levels that have lately raised alarms in the city.
A spokesperson from Punjab’s Environment Protection Agency (EPA) mentioned that the proposal will be reviewed in early November. He noted that school timings might also see adjustments, as officials aim to reduce outdoor activity during peak smog hours.
According to the latest IQ Air rankings, Lahore has hit the global spotlight as the second-most polluted city in the world, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) currently standing at 215. At this level, the air is deemed ‘very unhealthy,’ posing serious risks, especially for children who are vulnerable to respiratory issues.
If approved, these extended school holidays could help keep students indoors during the worst of the smog, lowering their health risks. With Lahore’s pollution levels frequently spiking, residents and authorities alike are increasingly aware of the urgent need to tackle this issue.
