Three-day school closure possible in Lahore amid worsening smog

A three-day school closure and potential schedule adjustments in Lahore is being considered as the city grapples with deteriorating air quality, local officials announced. Amid severe smog conditions, schools could close on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays to reduce health risks, pending a review by the environmental authorities, Express News reported.

The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency spokesperson said a decision is expected following a smog meeting in early November, where officials will assess conditions and finalise plans.

According to air monitoring firm IQAir, Lahore's average air quality index (AQI) currently stands at 208, ranking it among the most polluted cities globally.

Within the city, AQI levels vary, with Shimla Hill at 170, Town Hall at 209, Punjab University at 199, and the U.S. Consulate reaching a peak of 322. Other areas, such as the University of Management and Technology (UMT) and Jail Road, reported AQI levels of 277 and 246, respectively.

Lahore now ranks as the most polluted city in Pakistan and the second-most polluted globally, as air quality levels continue to worsen.

Yesterday, the Punjab government announced a 'green lockdown' in high pollution areas of Lahore, Express News reported.

The Environmental Protection Department has issued a notification for the green lockdown, which will prohibit construction activities in designated areas.

Additionally, the entry of auto-rickshaws will be banned, and the use of commercial generators will also be restricted. Outdoor barbecues will be prohibited after 8 pm in these areas.

Other areas affected by the lockdown include Shalimar Hill to Gulshan Cinema and Abbott Road, as well as Shalimar Hill to the railway station and Empress Road. Queen Mary Road and its surrounding areas have also been designated as pollution-affected regions.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has also indicated plans to write a letter to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab regarding the urgent smog crisis affecting both regions.

Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan also scheduled a special session to address the escalating smog crisis in Lahore and nearby areas.