The Punjab Education Department has introduced emergency measures to safeguard students’ health as smog levels continue to rise across the province.
According to an official notification sent to Chief Executive Officers of District Education Authorities (DEAs), all outdoor activities and sports in schools will remain suspended on smog-affected days. In addition, an awareness campaign has been launched for teachers, parents, and students to educate them about precautionary steps against smog-related health risks.
Key measures for schools during smog season:
- Awareness campaigns: Schools must launch awareness drives for students, teachers, and parents on health hazards and preventive steps such as wearing masks, staying hydrated, and reducing outdoor exposure. Special care must be given to children with asthma or other respiratory issues. Awareness activities must also be shared through schools’ official social media platforms, complete with photos, videos, and updates.
- Outdoor ban: All outdoor activities, including morning assemblies, sports, and physical training, will remain suspended on smog-affected days.
- Classroom safety: School heads are instructed to keep classrooms clean and well-ventilated, while ensuring windows and doors remain shut during peak smog hours.
- Waste disposal: Burning garbage or litter inside school premises has been strictly banned, with proper waste disposal arrangements made compulsory.
- Medical records: Schools must maintain emergency health records of students with respiratory or heart conditions, and teachers are required to stay alert for any signs of distress.
- Coordination with health authorities: Each district must appoint a focal person to coordinate with local health departments for quick medical response in emergencies.
- Daily AQI monitoring: District education authorities will monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) daily and issue timely instructions to schools.
- Reporting: Schools must submit awareness campaign links, focal person details, and weekly compliance reports to the Education Department, starting October 5, 2025.
