Smog Threat Prompts Urgent Action
The Punjab Education Department has imposed emergency measures to protect students’ health as smog levels rise across the province. An official notification sent to Chief Executive Officers of District Education Authorities (DEAs) outlined strict guidelines for schools.
According to the directives, all outdoor activities and sports will remain suspended on smog-affected days. At the same time, schools must launch awareness campaigns to educate parents, teachers, and students about health risks and preventive steps.
Awareness Campaigns and Health Precautions
Schools are instructed to initiate awareness drives focused on the harmful effects of smog and ways to minimize exposure. Students are encouraged to wear masks, drink plenty of water, and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. Teachers must pay special attention to children with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
To strengthen outreach, schools are required to share updates, videos, and photos of awareness activities on their official social media accounts. This ensures that health messages reach a wider community, including parents and guardians.
Suspension of Outdoor Activities
All outdoor activities, including morning assemblies, sports, and physical training sessions, will remain suspended on smog-affected days. The Education Department stressed that protecting students’ health must take priority over routine activities during hazardous air quality conditions.
Classroom Safety and Clean Environment
School heads have been directed to maintain clean and well-ventilated classrooms while keeping windows and doors shut during peak smog hours. The burning of garbage or litter within school premises has been strictly banned, and proper waste disposal arrangements have been made compulsory.
Health Monitoring and Emergency Preparedness
Schools must maintain emergency health records of students suffering from respiratory or heart conditions. Teachers have been advised to stay alert for any signs of distress among students and report immediately.
Each district will appoint a focal person to coordinate with local health departments for a quick medical response. Furthermore, district education authorities will monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) daily and issue timely instructions to schools.
Strict Reporting and Compliance Rules
The notification also mandates schools to submit awareness campaign links, focal person details, and weekly compliance reports to the Education Department. These measures will come into effect from October 5, 2025, ensuring strict monitoring and timely action throughout the smog season.
