Punjab’s Home Department has prolonged Section 144 enforcement for an additional seven days while implementing stringent penalties for educational institutions violating newly mandated operational hours.
Security Measures Continue
The provincial administration maintains comprehensive restrictions on public assemblies, demonstrations, and sit-ins across Punjab. The order prohibits gatherings exceeding four individuals in public spaces, weapon displays, and loudspeaker usage. Distribution of inflammatory or sectarian content remains banned.
Wedding ceremonies, funeral proceedings, and court operations remain exempt from these restrictions. Officials on duty also continue their regular functions unaffected.
Authorities justify the extension by citing ongoing security concerns, noting that large public gatherings present potential targets for militant attacks.
Environmental Enforcement Actions
Punjab government has introduced severe financial consequences for schools operating before designated hours. Director General Environment Imran Hamid Sheikh announced that all government and private educational institutions must delay opening until 8:45 AM minimum.
Institutions violating this directive face substantial penalties ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1 million. The measure directly addresses escalating smog and air quality deterioration affecting the province.
Reporting Mechanisms
Citizens can report timing violations through the Environmental Protection Agency Helpline at 1373 or via the Green Punjab mobile application. Officials emphasize immediate implementation, urging school administrations to ensure compliance.
Public Health Rationale
The modified schedule aims to reduce early morning vehicular traffic when smog concentrations peak. Environmental officials indicate that delayed school openings will minimize student exposure to hazardous air quality levels during critical morning hours.
Both the Home Department and Environmental Protection Agency have appealed for public cooperation in implementing these dual measures. Officials stress that combined security protocols and environmental safeguards serve broader public welfare objectives.
The simultaneous enforcement of security and environmental regulations reflects Punjab’s comprehensive approach to addressing multiple public safety challenges during this period.
