Punjab closes primary schools for one week, seeks dialogue with India on pollution

In response to rising pollution levels, the Punjab government has closed all public and private primary schools in Lahore for a week and aims to initiate talks with India over smog concerns, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel on Sunday.

According to the report, this was announced by the Senior Provincial Minister, Marriyum Aurangzeb, during a press conference at the Chief Minister’s House.

The environment department has issued a holiday notification. According to the notification, schools from nursery to fifth grade will remain closed. The decision will be applied from November 4 to 9.

Marriyum Aurangzeb revealed that Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a critical 1066 due to toxic winds blowing from Indian cities like Amritsar and Chandigarh. The minister urged caution, noting that an AQI over 500 is “extremely hazardous.”

She shared that the Punjab government has demolished over 550 illegal kilns and distributed funds and eco-friendly vehicles to farmers to prevent crop burning. 

The government has also implemented monitoring of construction and industrial areas to curb emissions, she said.

“If we have public cooperation, we can overcome this smog crisis,” she stated, adding that advisory notices have been issued urging citizens to remain indoors, wear masks, and avoid outdoor activities for children and the elderly.

The minister emphasised the need for dialogue with India to address the cross-border environmental impact. She noted that while they cannot control the incoming winds, Punjab remains committed to tackling smog through stringent measures, technological support, and public awareness.