Section 144 extended across Punjab; crackdown against schools violating timings

LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province for another seven days, maintaining restrictions on public gatherings and demonstrations.

According to a spokesperson for the Home Department, all kinds of protests, sit-ins, and similar public activities remain banned under the extension. The order also prohibits gatherings of four or more people in public places, the display of weapons, and the use of loudspeakers. Additionally, the publication and distribution of inflammatory or sectarian material are strictly forbidden.

The spokesperson clarified that the restrictions will not apply to wedding ceremonies, funerals, or burials. Officials on duty and court activities have also been exempted from the ban.

Authorities said that the measure was extended due to persistent security threats, warning that large public processions and sit-ins could be potential targets for terrorist attacks.

STRICT ACTION AGAINST SCHOOLS VIOLATING NEW TIMINGS

In a separate development, the Punjab government has announced strict penalties for educational institutions that fail to comply with the newly enforced working hours.

According to a notification issued by Director General (DG) Environment Imran Hamid Sheikh, all government and private schools across the province are prohibited from opening before 8:45 AM. Schools found violating the directive will face fines ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1 million.

The DG Environment said the decision was made in light of rising smog and air pollution levels across Punjab. He added that the new timings are effective immediately, and violations can be reported via the EPA Helpline 1373 or the Green Punjab App.

The Home Department and Environmental Protection Agency have urged the public and school administrations to cooperate in implementing these measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection.