The government of Punjab announced reopening of schools in the province as a whole, except in the divisions of Lahore and Multan, from November 19 as air quality improves. For so long that hazy smog plagued the region, schools had to remain closed.
School Closures Background
On Nov. 6, the provincial authorities declared a “calamity” due to worsening smog, forcing the closure of all public and private educational institutions in 18 districts from November 7 to November 17. Later, the shutdown was extended until November 24 as air quality indices across Punjab reached hazardous levels, especially in Lahore.
The recent rain and good wind conditions have been responsible for bringing down air pollution by large margins so that schools reopen in most districts. Today for the first time in nearly two weeks, Lahore’s Air Quality Index drops out of the hazardous category.
Reopening Guidelines
A notice issued by the EPA termed reopening strictly in adherence to the preventive measure protocols. Among these protocols are:
Compulsory mask use for both students and teachers.
No opening of schools before 8:45 am so that students do not interact before the peak smog hours.
Extracurricular activities prohibited in the open.
Closing of the schools at staggered time to reduce congestion in traffic and augmentation of vehicular emissions in the surroundings of schools.Opening Regions
While most of the districts’ schools will reopen, schools in Lahore and Multan divisions will keep their doors shut for now. Schools in the Rawalpindi division, including Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and Chakwal, have been allowed to reopen from Tuesday with school-going students also attending class physically.
Enforcement and Compliance
The Punjab School Education Department has directed the district chief executive officers to ensure that the orders issued by the EPA are fully implemented. Such schools can be given some fines for violating the orders.
The Punjab government will continue to monitor air quality closely and revisit their decisions for the Lahore and Multan divisions with respect to further developments.
This could provide some comfort to parents as well as students who suffer through prolonged shutdowns while still protecting public health and safety in the effort.