The PM2.5 pollutant level, a fine particulate matter that poses severe health risks, recently surged to 610 approximately 40 times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit
By our correspondent
LAHORE: In an urgent response to the intensifying smog crisis, the Punjab government has announced the closure of all schools across the province until November 17. Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb confirmed that high schools in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan would remain closed, while primary to 12th-grade institutions will also halt in-person learning in the most affected cities. As part of the government’s smog-containment measures, 50 percent of government and private office employees will work remotely, and all official meetings will now take place online.
Addressing the media, Aurangzeb outlined the worsening environmental conditions, attributing much of the current smog to cross-border winds from India’s Rajasthan, as well as to local crop-burning, industrial emissions, and the use of plastic bags. Despite a provincial ban on plastic bags, enforcement has been lax, contributing further to pollution levels. In response, the government has reintroduced mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces, while schools will set up online classes to ensure continuity of learning during the closure period.
Aurangzeb expressed concern over the alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in Punjab, especially in Lahore, which recorded an unprecedented AQI of over 1,000, far surpassing the threshold considered “hazardous.” The PM2.5 pollutant level, a fine particulate matter that poses severe health risks, recently surged to 610 – approximately 40 times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit. In Lahore, the smog, a toxic mixture of fog and pollutants, has reduced visibility, strained healthcare facilities, and raised alarm among residents suffering from respiratory and eye issues. The Environmental Protection Agency has set up a “Smog War Room” to monitor pollution levels, aiming to improve air quality through coordinated, data-driven interventions.
While fielding questions, Aurangzeb also addressed the status of Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader Maryam Nawaz Sharif, clarifying that she is currently in Geneva for medical treatment following a throat infection. Contrary to rumors, her departure is unrelated to the ongoing environmental crisis, and she is expected back in Pakistan by November 12. Aurangzeb emphasized that Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s commitment to Punjab’s welfare has remained steadfast despite her health challenges.
