HEC Closes Universities in Smog-Affected Areas

As toxic smog continues to blanket Lahore and Multan, the Higher Education Commission HEC has issued a directive for universities and colleges in the affected areas to cease in-person classes. In a bid to safeguard the health of both students and faculty, these institutions will switch to online classes until the air quality improves.

The government of Punjab has expanded its response by shutting down all schools across the province, with the exception of those in Murree, until November 24. This move is part of a broader effort to limit public exposure to the hazardous pollution levels.

Citizens have been urged to wear protective masks and stay indoors, as outdoor activities have been restricted. Authorities are also asking residents to limit unnecessary travel in order to minimize health risks.

A three-day weekend lockdown has been implemented in Lahore and Multan, where authorities will monitor the air quality closely. If conditions don’t improve, stricter measures may be introduced in the coming weeks.

The government has suspended construction activities in both cities for one week starting November 16 to prevent further contributions to air pollution.

Marriyum Aurangzeb, Senior Minister for Information and Environment, has emphasized the grave health threats posed by the smog, drawing parallels to the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of its impact. In response, several additional measures have been introduced, including mandatory market closures at 8 p.m., cancellation of paramedic leave, and extended hospital hours to accommodate more patients.