Will Punjab Announce Early Winter Vacations in Schools as Smog Worsens?

With smog levels reaching alarming levels across Punjab, particularly in Lahore, speculation is growing about the possible closure of schools and an early start to winter vacations this year.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, air pollution has intensified due to prolonged dry weather, and conditions are expected to deteriorate further in the coming days.

Last year, the Punjab government temporarily closed all educational institutions for a week in November, later extending the break due to worsening smog. This year, authorities from the provincial government and Education Department are closely monitoring the situation, but no decision on school closures has been made so far.

Officials have hinted that if pollution continues to rise, the government may suspend classes for primary-level students as a precautionary measure to protect children’s health. The Meteorological Department warned that air quality across eastern Punjab is likely to deteriorate further in the coming days.

Environmental experts have urged the public to take protective measures, warning that toxic air could lead to an increase in respiratory problems, cough, flu, and eye irritation, especially among children, the elderly, and patients with preexisting conditions.