Rawalpindi Schools Closure Extended Due to Air Pollution

In recent weeks, the Rawalpindi district has been grappling with severe air pollution, leading to a significant increase in smog levels. This environmental crisis has prompted the district administration to take decisive action to protect the health and well-being of students. On Saturday, it was announced that all public and private schools in Rawalpindi will remain closed until November 24, extending the previously set closure date of November 17. This decision comes as a response to the hazardous air quality that has been affecting the region.

The Punjab School Education Department has issued directives mandating the closure of educational institutions across the district. During this extended leave period, schools are expected to transition to online classes to ensure that students can continue their education despite the physical closures. The District Education Officer of Rawalpindi has emphasized the importance of compliance with these directives, instructing all Deputy District Education Officers and Assistant Education Officers to monitor the situation closely.

Field officers have been tasked with conducting visits to schools to confirm that physical classes are indeed suspended and that online education is being effectively implemented. The Director of Education has made it clear that any instances of non-compliance will be reported for necessary action under existing regulations. This proactive approach aims to safeguard the health of students, as the region has seen a troubling rise in respiratory and eye-related diseases linked to the poor air quality.

On November 5, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Punjab issued a notification that mandated the closure of all educational institutions, including private tuition centers, up to the higher secondary level in Rawalpindi Division. This decision was made in light of the alarming levels of air pollution that have been recorded, which pose serious health risks to children and adolescents. Health officials have reported a surge in cases of lung and respiratory ailments, as well as eye and throat irritation, all attributed to exposure to polluted air and harmful chemical particles.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for parents, educators, and students to remain informed and adaptable. The shift to online learning may present challenges, but it also offers an opportunity for innovative teaching methods and greater flexibility in education. It is essential for everyone to prioritize health and safety during these trying times, and to work together to ensure that students continue to receive the education they deserve, even in the face of environmental challenges.