School timings changed in Punjab as smog levels drop

Punjab has decided to revert school timings following a reduction in smog levels. The new timings, effective from December 4, 2024, stipulate that schools will open at 8:15 am, reported Express News.

In response to the worsening smog situation, the government had pushed back school timings to 8:45 am on November 18.

However, following the improvement in air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab issued a notification announcing the resumption of normal school hours.

According to the notification, all public and private schools across Punjab will be required to open at 8:15 am starting from December 4. The directive, issued under the Environmental Protection Act 1997, mandates immediate implementation.

Imran Hamed Sheikh, the Director-General of Environment, stressed that any schools failing to comply with the new timings will face legal action, including fines and penalties.

The notification also directed all commissioners and deputy commissioners in the province to ensure full compliance with the new timings, with the primary aim of protecting the health of students and teachers.

This change in school hours is aimed at mitigating the effects of air pollution on students' health while ensuring that their education is not disrupted.