Punjab Smog Alert 2025: Schools May Close Early as Lahore’s AQI Reaches Hazardous Levels

The rising levels of air pollution across Punjab, particularly in Lahore, have once again raised alarms as the province braces for an intense smog season. According to the latest weather and environmental reports, Lahore has once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) level of 362, placing it in the “hazardous” category. This alarming situation has triggered discussions within the Punjab government about the potential closure of educational institutions to protect the health of students and staff.

Smog Situation Worsens Across Punjab

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a serious smog alert, warning that the air quality in Punjab’s major cities — including Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Sheikhupura — is deteriorating rapidly. The department noted that persistent dry weather, lack of rainfall, and continued emissions from vehicles and industrial units have intensified the smog levels across the province.

Meteorologists have also cautioned that in the coming days, the smog situation is expected to worsen further as wind speed remains low and moisture levels stay minimal, making it difficult for particulate matter to disperse. Visibility issues have already begun affecting road traffic and daily routines in major cities.

Government Monitoring the Situation

Officials from the Punjab Education Department and Environment Protection Department (EPD) have confirmed that the government is closely monitoring the situation before making any decisions regarding school closures.

Sources indicate that the Punjab government is considering temporary closures of primary schools if the smog intensity increases in the coming days. However, as of now, no official notification has been issued regarding holidays or a suspension of educational activities.

An official from the School Education Department stated:

“The situation is being evaluated on a daily basis. We are coordinating with the Meteorological Department and environmental experts to assess whether it will be necessary to suspend classes for the safety of students. The final decision will depend on the upcoming weather patterns and AQI readings.”

Reference to Last Year’s Precedent

This situation brings back memories of last year’s emergency school closure, when the Punjab government had to shut down all educational institutions from November 3rd for one week due to hazardous smog levels. Later, those holidays were extended for another week, as pollution levels showed no signs of improvement.

Given that the smog season typically intensifies during late October and early November, many experts believe that similar measures could be repeated this year to prevent widespread respiratory and eye-related illnesses among children.

Health Experts Warn of Serious Risks

Environmental and health experts have strongly advised the public, especially parents and school administrators, to take precautionary measures to protect children from the harmful effects of smog.

Dr. Ayesha Khan, a pulmonologist at Mayo Hospital Lahore, emphasized that airborne toxins and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in smog can cause severe respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
She said:

“Children are more vulnerable to air pollution because their lungs are still developing. Continuous exposure to smog can lead to chronic cough, asthma, throat irritation, and even long-term lung damage. If AQI levels remain high, outdoor activities should be strictly avoided.”

Hospitals in Lahore have already started witnessing a noticeable rise in cases of cough, flu, sore throat, eye irritation, and asthma attacks, particularly among school-going children and elderly citizens.

Preventive Measures Advised

In light of the current air quality crisis, the Punjab government has urged citizens to minimize outdoor exposure, wear protective masks, and avoid unnecessary travel during morning and evening hours when smog concentration is at its peak.
Furthermore, local authorities have intensified anti-smog campaigns across major districts, which include:

• Water sprinkling on roads to settle dust.

• Crackdown on smoke-emitting vehicles and brick kilns operating without filters.

• Strict monitoring of industrial emissions.

• Encouraging tree plantation and public awareness drives about environmental protection.

The Traffic Police have also been directed to ensure that all vehicles on the road are well-maintained and compliant with emission standards. Offenders found contributing to air pollution will face hefty fines and possible vehicle impoundment.

Smog and Education: Balancing Health and Learning

Educational experts have expressed concern over the potential academic disruption that may occur if schools are forced to shut down again. However, they also acknowledged that student health and safety must remain the top priority.

Many schools in Lahore and surrounding districts have already begun preparing contingency plans for online classes or revised schedules in case the government imposes an emergency closure. Some private institutions have equipped their classrooms with air purifiers and sealed ventilation systems to reduce exposure to polluted air.

Final Decision Expected Soon

While the Punjab government has not yet made an official announcement, sources close to the Chief Minister’s Office suggest that a decision could be made within the next few days, depending on the evolving weather and smog patterns. If the AQI levels continue to remain in the hazardous range, it is highly likely that schools — especially at the primary level — will be temporarily closed as a preventive health measure.

Until then, parents, teachers, and students are advised to stay updated with official notifications issued by the School Education Department Punjab and local district administrations.