Lahore students welcome winter holidays as smog and fog pose travel challenges

LAHORE: Students in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, from both public and private schools, are now observing their winter holidays, which commence today (December 18).

This winter break is especially significant as Lahore grapples with increasing challenges related to smog, poor air quality, and dense fog.

The winter holidays prove beneficial for students, sparing them from navigating through the dense fog and low visibility conditions on their way to school.

The annual winter vacation in public and private schools across the province officially began on Monday and is scheduled to conclude with schools reopening on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.

Reports highlight the growing challenges faced by citizens in commuting and venturing outdoors during the morning and evening hours, given the widespread fog enveloping various areas in Lahore.

Notable affected zones include Defence Housing Authority (DHA) phases 1 to 5, DHA Phase 9 town, Askari 11 Lahore, DHA Phase 6, DHA Phase 8, DHA Rahbar and housing societies along Bedian Road, such as Pace Woodlands, Bankers Housing Society, Askari 11 Sector C, Formanites Housing Society, State Life Housing Society, and Sui Gas Housing Society.

Additionally, fog has encroached upon areas near Thokar Niaz Baig Lahore, including LDA Avenue 1, Wapda Town, and Johar Town. The morning today witnessed reduced visibility in affected areas like Airport Road and Broadway.

In light of these challenging weather conditions, the annual winter vacation seeks to ensure the safety and well-being of students, providing them with a break until normalcy is restored.

During periods of intensified fog, Lahore Ring Road is closed as a precautionary measure to prevent incidents arising from reduced visibility.

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