Several private schools across Punjab have reportedly defied government directives banning outdoor activities amid worsening smog, continuing to take students on recreational trips to parks and public venues.
Despite a province-wide ban on outdoor events in educational institutions, schools have been seen organizing picnics and trips to Joyland, Jallo Park, Safari Park, and the Lahore Zoo, raising concerns about potential health risks to children.
Authorities have warned that exposure to severe smog levels can have harmful effects on students’ health, particularly on their respiratory systems.
The District Education Authority (DEA) has been criticized for failing to enforce the government’s instructions effectively. As per regulations, private schools are required to obtain prior permission from the concerned education authorities before organizing any student trips.
However, according to media reports, many schools have ignored this requirement and are conducting trips without official approval.
In a statement, the Lahore Education Authority reiterated that the government has imposed a complete ban on outdoor activities in all educational institutions until further notice. “Strict action will be taken against schools found violating the directives,” an official warned.
The provincial government had earlier announced these restrictions to protect students from the adverse health impacts of hazardous air quality caused by persistent smog across Punjab.
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only in Pakistan are grade 1 (and even younger) students thrown to school by their parents in 500+ AQI.
Salute
All schools in Pakistan should have restrictions against forcing students to wear only the jackets or upper garments featuring the school’s logo and name during winter.