Punjab Takes Strict Action Against Private Schools Opening Before 8:45 AM
Google NewsIn a decisive move to protect students from worsening smog conditions, the Punjab government has launched a province-wide crackdown against private schools violating winter timing rules by opening before 8:45 a.m.
The directive comes from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, with Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirming that strict action will be taken against institutions failing to comply with the government’s revised school timing schedule.
New School Timing Policy in Punjab
The Punjab School Education Department (SED) recently set the official winter school timings for both public and private schools at 8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
However, reports surfaced that some private schools continued to call students earlier than the mandated time, exposing them to cold weather and hazardous air quality.
“Any school found opening before 8:45 a.m. will face disciplinary and legal action,”
warned Marriyum Aurangzeb, adding that the Private Schools Association has been formally notified.
The move is part of the government’s broader initiative to reduce exposure to toxic smog and safeguard children’s health.
Government’s Anti-Smog Measures Across Punjab
Alongside enforcing school timings, the Punjab government has introduced a series of urgent steps to tackle the air pollution crisis across the province.
Key Measures Include:
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Immediate shutdown of under-construction projects not following environmental SOPs.
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Zero tolerance for smoke-emitting vehicles and industrial emissions.
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Drone surveillance to curb crop residue burning by farmers.
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Ban on plastic use and enforcement of eco-friendly practices in markets.
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Mapping and monitoring of green zones for environmental balance.
According to Marriyum Aurangzeb, Punjab is transitioning toward a climate-resilient future, adopting strict pollution control measures that align with international environmental standards.
Night Patrolling and Law Enforcement
To ensure compliance, Assistant Commissioners, Police, and Agriculture Department teams are conducting night patrols across Punjab. These teams are tasked with identifying violators of anti-smog regulations and ensuring immediate corrective action.
The environmental monitoring system is now fully functional, providing real-time data on pollution levels and helping authorities identify high-risk zones more effectively.
Health Advisory for Citizens
With air quality in Lahore and other major cities reaching hazardous levels, the Punjab government has issued an important health advisory to minimize public exposure to smog.
Recommended Precautions:
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Students and elderly citizens should stay indoors during high-pollution hours — between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., and after 7:00 p.m.
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Use face masks or air filters when stepping outside.
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Keep indoor plants to help purify air inside homes.
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Stay hydrated and use saline drops to avoid eye or throat irritation.
Medical experts have warned that prolonged exposure to smog can lead to respiratory infections, asthma, and eye allergies, particularly among children and the elderly.
Message to Private Schools
The Education Department has reiterated that student safety must remain the top priority. Schools violating government orders will face penalties, suspension of licenses, or closure.
Officials emphasized that the new 8:45 a.m. opening time must be implemented uniformly across all districts. Any deviation from this policy will be viewed as non-compliance with environmental protection directives.
“This is not just about education—it’s about health and safety,”
said an SED spokesperson. “We’re committed to protecting students while ensuring uninterrupted academic schedules.”
Punjab’s Climate-Resilient Future
The Punjab government’s latest actions reflect a broader vision under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership to build a greener, cleaner, and safer Punjab.
From closing polluting sites to modernizing urban monitoring systems, these measures demonstrate a firm commitment to environmental responsibility and public welfare.
As smog season intensifies, Punjab’s proactive approach aims to minimize health hazards, enforce discipline among private institutions, and set an example for sustainable governance across Pakistan.
Final Thoughts
The crackdown on schools opening before 8:45 a.m. is not just an administrative measure — it’s a public health initiative.
By combining strict enforcement, technological monitoring, and public awareness, the Punjab government hopes to reduce smog-related risks and promote a safer environment for students and families alike.
