Smog holidays in Punjab: LHC orders Punjab govt to close educational institutions on Saturdays, Sundays

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has instructed the Punjab government to shut down all government and private educational institutions on Saturdays and Sundays.

Additionally, offices are mandated to adopt a two-day-per-week work from home (WFH) policy. It’s important to note that this directive specifically applies to areas in the province affected by smog. In Lahore division, Sheikhupura, Khanewal, and Bahawalnagar, all public and private offices will observe closure twice a week.

Furthermore, due to the failure to control smog in the province, the LHC has directed the replacement of the Director General of Environment.

Justice Shahid Karim has also ordered the transfer of Deputy Commissioners in Jhang, Hafiz Abad, Khanewal, Nankana Sahib, Bahawalnagar, and Sheikhupura. The Chief Secretary Punjab is instructed to promptly issue notifications regarding these transfers.

The court emphasized that vehicles are the primary contributors to smog.

Moreover, the Punjab government is urged to promote cycling within the province and procure electric motorcycles for its personnel. The LHC judge criticized the Punjab government for initiating development projects amid the oppressive smog conditions.