The Punjab government has ruled out closing schools or restricting market timings in response to smog, saying air pollution levels are falling across the province. Officials confirmed on Wednesday that no such proposal is under consideration.

The clarification follows days of speculation on social media that winter holidays might be brought forward because of poor air quality. The provincial Environment Protection Department said smog levels in October were 33 per cent lower than in the same period last year, while a separate survey recorded a 27 per cent decline.

Rain expected to bring further relief

Officials expect air quality to improve further after 15 November, helped by forecast rain, the wheat-sowing season and reduced crop residue burning. Deputy Director Environment Lahore Ali Ejaz confirmed that no department had proposed closing schools or colleges, or restricting market timings, this year.

Despite the improving trend, air quality remained poor on Wednesday morning. Figures reported by Bloom Pakistan, based on IQAir data, put Multan's air quality index at 867 and Lahore's at 471 on Tuesday, with PM2.5 identified as the main pollutant in Lahore.

Anti-smog measures continue

Authorities have stepped up action against pollution in Lahore, with the Water and Sanitation Agency, the Lahore Waste Management Company and the Environment Protection Department using smog guns and washing roads to settle dust. Officials urged residents to follow health advice while the smog season continues.

Parents had also been waiting for news on winter holidays. As of 10 November, the Punjab government had issued no notification on the winter vacation schedule, and reports of an early break remain unconfirmed. For the latest official position, see Bloom Pakistan's report on the government's clarification.