Punjab Suspends Outdoor Sports and Assemblies in Schools Due to Smog
The Punjab School Education Department has issued new emergency measures to protect students’ health as smog levels rise across the province.
An official notification sent to District Education Authorities (DEAs) confirms that all outdoor sports, morning assemblies, and physical activities will remain banned on smog-affected days.
At the same time, schools have been directed to start awareness campaigns to educate parents, teachers, and students about the dangers of smog and preventive steps to reduce health risks. Check 12500 STI Jobs in Punjab Schools.
Why Has Punjab Banned Outdoor Activities in Schools?
Smog in Punjab has reached alarming levels, making it dangerous for children to stay outdoors. Continuous exposure can lead to serious health problems, especially for students with asthma and other respiratory diseases. To minimize risks, the government has decided to stop all outdoor activities until conditions improve.
Key Safety Measures for Schools During Smog Season
1. Awareness Campaigns
Schools are required to run health awareness drives about the effects of smog. Teachers must guide students to:
- Wear face masks
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure
Parents should also take extra care of children with breathing problems. Schools must share awareness activities through their official social media pages with photos, videos, and updates.
2. Ban on Outdoor Activities
On smog-affected days, morning assemblies, sports events, and physical training sessions will not take place. Students will remain indoors to avoid exposure.
3. Classroom Safety
School heads must keep classrooms clean and properly ventilated. However, during peak smog hours, windows and doors should remain closed to stop polluted air from entering.
4. Waste Disposal Rules
The burning of garbage or litter inside school premises has been strictly prohibited. Schools must arrange safe waste disposal methods to prevent extra smoke.
5. Medical Records and Emergency Care
Schools have been ordered to maintain health records of students with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory problems. Teachers must stay alert to notice signs of discomfort and act quickly if medical help is needed.
6. Coordination with Health Departments
Each district will appoint a focal person to stay in touch with local health authorities. This step will ensure immediate medical support if a student faces breathing issues.
7. Daily Air Quality Monitoring
District Education Authorities will check the Air Quality Index (AQI) daily and give instructions to schools. This will help decide when outdoor activities should be suspended.
8. Reporting to Education Department
Schools must send reports every week, including:
- Links to awareness activities
- Details of focal persons
- Compliance reports
This reporting system will start from October 5, 2025.
Possible Winter Holidays Due to Smog
The Punjab Education Department has also hinted that winter holidays may be announced in November 2025 if smog continues to worsen. This step would be taken to ensure students’ safety during extreme air pollution.
Final Thoughts
The Punjab government is taking strong steps to fight the health risks of smog. By banning outdoor activities, improving classroom safety, and running awareness campaigns, the School Education Department aims to keep children safe during this dangerous season.
