The Punjab government has revised school timings across the province in response to the worsening smog situation, setting new class hours from 8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. starting Monday. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat announced the decision on Sunday, stating that it aims to protect students' health while ensuring uninterrupted learning. The change comes as thick layers of smog continue to blanket major cities, severely affecting air quality and visibility.

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Meanwhile, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said the government would make a final decision regarding any further adjustment in school timings on Monday. Speaking to reporters in Lahore, she clarified that there is currently no need to close schools, emphasizing that the government is closely monitoring the situation and prioritizing public safety.

The move follows alarming pollution levels recorded across the province. Lahore once again topped the list of the world's most polluted cities on Sunday, with a US Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 349, placing it in the "hazardous" category. The PM2.5 concentration was reported at 249.5 µg/m³ -- nearly 50 times higher than the World Health Organisation's safe limit.

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Environmental experts have attributed the worsening smog to vehicle emissions, industrial activity, and the lack of rainfall, which traps pollutants close to the ground. The toxic haze has persisted for several days, causing widespread health problems, including sore throats, breathing difficulties, and eye irritation among residents.

Public health authorities have advised citizens to avoid outdoor exposure during peak smog hours and to wear protective masks when necessary. As the government weighs further measures, schools and families are urged to remain cautious and follow official guidelines until air quality improves.