The Punjab government has issued fresh smog guidelines for schools through the Education Department, introducing urgent measures to safeguard students’ health and safety during worsening air quality.
A notification sent to the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of District Education Authorities (DEAs) directed all schools to suspend outdoor activities, including sports and morning assemblies, on days when smog levels pose health risks.
Alongside these restrictions, the Punjab Education Department has initiated a province-wide awareness campaign targeting teachers, students, and parents. The campaign highlights precautionary steps such as wearing masks, drinking water regularly, and avoiding unnecessary outdoor exposure, especially for children suffering from asthma or other respiratory conditions.
The fresh smog guidelines also detail classroom safety measures. Administrators have been instructed to maintain clean and well-ventilated classrooms while keeping doors and windows shut during heavy smog. Schools must also strictly prohibit garbage burning and ensure proper waste disposal practices.
Health monitoring has been made a priority, with schools required to maintain emergency health records of students with respiratory or heart issues. Teachers have been asked to stay vigilant for symptoms related to smog exposure. To further strengthen the system, each district must appoint a focal person to coordinate with local health authorities in case of emergencies.
The Punjab Education Department has tasked DEAs with monitoring daily Air Quality Index (AQI) readings and issuing timely instructions to schools. Starting October 5, 2025, all schools will be required to submit compliance reports, including records of awareness drives and details of their designated health coordinators.