Islamabad, Nov 22: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has mandated that schools provide pick-and-drop services for students starting after the winter break, in an effort to protect them from the escalating smog conditions.
The decision, issued by Justice Shahid Karim during a hearing on smog prevention petitions, stipulates that schools must arrange transportation for students, warning that failure to comply could result in the sealing of the schools.
The court also emphasized that schools cannot issue disclaimers to absolve themselves of responsibility for student transportation.
In addition, Justice Karim directed the transport authorities to develop a vehicle fitness policy within 15 days, ensuring that all vehicles undergo inspections every three months and that fitness certificates be issued by the transport department.
The department was also tasked with creating a comprehensive database of public and private buses.
Government Resumes Outdoor Activities as Smog Levels Improve
In related news, the Punjab government has lifted restrictions on outdoor activities following a decline in smog levels. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that parks, zoos, playgrounds, museums, and other outdoor venues will reopen, with activities resuming until 8:00 pm. This move comes after improvements in the Air Quality Index (AQI), providing a much-needed boost to outdoor events and businesses.
