New School Timings Introduced in Punjab

Punjab has announced a shift back to regular school hours following an improvement in air quality across the province. Starting today, schools will resume their standard opening time of 8:15 am, according to a notification issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab.

Previously, in response to escalating smog levels, the government had delayed school start times to 8:45 am on November 18. With air quality showing signs of recovery, the EPA deemed it appropriate to restore the original schedule.

The notification applies to all public and private educational institutions in Punjab and has been implemented under the Environmental Protection Act 1997. Schools failing to adhere to the revised timings may face strict legal consequences, including fines, as warned by Imran Hamed Sheikh, Director-General of Environment.

Local commissioners and deputy commissioners have been instructed to ensure compliance with the new directive. Officials emphasized that the decision aims to protect students and teachers from prolonged exposure to air pollution while maintaining educational continuity.

News Courtesy:Pro Pakistani