LAHORE: As winter approaches, Punjab, particularly the province’s capital, Lahore, faces the recurring challenge of severe smog, which has previously led to school closures and public health emergencies. Last year, the government declared smog a “calamity,” resulting in temporary school closures and special leave for students with respiratory conditions.
In 2025, the situation remains concerning. Lahore has experienced hazardous air quality levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching dangerously high levels, making it one of the most polluted cities globally. The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued high alerts for several districts, including Lahore, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad, warning that smog intensity is expected to worsen from November through mid-December.
In response to the worsening air quality, the Punjab Education Department has implemented revised school timings. Starting from October 27, 2025, all public and private schools have adjusted their hours to operate from 8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., a measure aimed at reducing students’ exposure to hazardous conditions.
While the government has yet to announce extended winter vacations or additional holidays specifically due to smog, it is closely monitoring the situation. Experts have suggested that declaring “smog holidays” could be a necessary step to protect vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly.
In conclusion, while Punjab has not yet declared official smog holidays for 2025, the government is actively responding to the air quality crisis with adjusted school timings and continued vigilance. Further actions, including school closures, may be considered if the smog conditions worsen.
