In response to the escalating air pollution in Lahore, school hours have been changed.

In an effort to mitigate deteriorating air pollution as a result of smog, new school hours have been implemented in Lahore.

According to a global monitoring site, the air quality index (AQI) in Lahore was elevated to hazardous levels of 700 on Sunday.

The changes are in accordance with the directives of the Environment Protection Department of Punjab.

In accordance with an official notification, schools will now open at 8:45 AM for pupils, effective from today (October 28) until January 31, 2025.

Additionally, all outdoor activities have been temporarily suspended, and student assemblies will be conducted in classrooms rather than outdoor spaces.

Until January 31, 2025, the notification also imposes a strict prohibition on pyrotechnics in Lahore. Authorities have recommended that the public utilize masks and other protective measures to reduce their exposure to pollution.

Windows and doors should be kept closed, and residents are advised to refrain from spending extended periods of time outdoors.

The health recommendation of the AQI index report for the citizens of Lahore is to refrain from outdoor exercise, close windows to prevent the infiltration of polluted outdoor air, wear a mask when outdoors, and operate an air purifier to circulate fresh air.

The atmosphere becomes polluted as a result of the downward movement of poisonous particulates in the atmosphere during the wintertime, as the air becomes heavier than it is during the summer. Consequently, a layer of polluted particles, which includes substantial quantities of carbon and smog, forms over a region.

Experts have noted that the impact of the smoke generated by the burning of crop remnants, factories, coal, garbage, oil, or tires is visible at the beginning of winter and persists until the season’s conclusion.