LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued an order for schools to provide transport to students after the winter break, aiming to ease the challenges students may face during this period.
The education department has been instructed to issue final notices to schools, warning that any institution failing to comply with the order will be sealed.
Justice Shahid Karim released a three-page written order addressing smog control measures and their impact on students.
During the hearing, the Advocate General informed the court about government efforts to combat smog, including registering cases against individuals burning crop residues and deploying officers to monitor and prevent such activities. The transport department has also taken steps against smoke-emitting vehicles.
The court praised these initiatives and noted a noticeable improvement in Lahore’s air quality, ranking it fifth among the world’s most polluted cities. However, challenges remain, with Multan currently listed as Pakistan’s most polluted city with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 265, followed by Lahore at 250. Other polluted cities include Peshawar, Rawalpindi, and Karachi.
The Lahore High Court’s order aims to ensure better air quality and convenience for students, reflecting its commitment to addressing environmental and educational concerns.
The Punjab Education Department has announced winter vacations for schools across Punjab.
According to Punjab Secretary of Schools, Khalid Nazir Wattoo, all schools will remain closed for 20 days, from December 20, 2024, to January 10, 2025.
