The Government of Punjab has officially announced new school timings for all public and private schools across the province because of the rising level of smog and air pollution. According to the Environment Protection Department (EPA Punjab), this decision has been made to ensure the safety and health of students during the winter smog season.
As per the latest EPA Punjab notification, all schools in Punjab will now open at 8:45 AM instead of the usual early morning timing. These new timings will remain in effect from 3rd November 2025 to 31st January 2026. The order applies to both government and private educational institutions.
Punjab School Timing During SMOG 8:45 Winter Session 2025 Brief Information
| Topic | Details |
| Department | Environment Protection Department (EPA), Government of Punjab |
| Reason | High level of smog and air pollution in Punjab |
| Effective Dates | 3rd November 2025 – 31st January 2026 |
| New School Timing | Schools to open at 8:45 AM |
| Applicable To | All public and private schools across Punjab |
| First Violation Fine | Rs. 1 to 5 lakh |
| Repeated Violation Fine | Rs. 6 to 10 lakh |
| Complaint Options | EPA Helpline 1373 or Green Punjab App |
| Agency Status | ISO Certified Agency (EPA Punjab) |
Smog Forces Change in School Schedule Across Punjab
Due to severe smog and low air quality in Punjab, the provincial government has decided to delay the opening time of schools. Morning smog and fog have made it unsafe for children to travel early in the morning, especially in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Sheikhupura, where pollution levels are high.
The Environment Protection Department Punjab (EPA) has directed all educational institutions to strictly follow this new timing of 8:45 AM. Schools have been asked to inform parents and staff immediately and to avoid any violation of this order.
Strict Action Against Schools Ignoring EPA Order
According to the official EPA Punjab notice, strict action will be taken against any school that violates this new timing schedule.
- First violation: Fine between Rs. 1 to 5 lakh
- Repeated violations: Fine between Rs. 6 to 10 lakh
EPA officials will also conduct inspections to ensure that schools are complying with the timing schedule. Parents and citizens can register complaints on Helpline 1373 or through the Green Punjab App if they observe any violation.
Government’s Step to Protect Students from Smog Effects
This decision is part of the Government of Punjab’s efforts to reduce health risks caused by smog, which has become a serious issue during winter. The smog contains dangerous particles that can cause breathing problems, eye irritation, and other diseases, especially among children.
By changing school timings, the government aims to reduce students’ exposure to dense smog in early morning hours and create a safer learning environment.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s move to change school timings to 8:45 AM is a protective measure to safeguard students from smog and air pollution. All schools must follow the EPA Punjab notification strictly to avoid heavy fines. Parents are advised to stay updated through official announcements and ensure children leave for school after the smog level decreases.
FAQs
Q1: What are the new school timings in Punjab during smog season?
All schools will open at 8:45 AM.
Q2: When will the new school schedule be effective?
It will apply from 3rd November 2025 to 31st January 2026.
Q3: Which department issued this order?
The Environment Protection Department (EPA Punjab) issued this order.
Q4: What is the fine for violating the EPA timing rule?
Schools can be fined between Rs. 1 to 10 lakh, depending on the number of violations.
Q5: How can citizens report violations?
Complaints can be registered on EPA Helpline 1373 or the Green Punjab App.