The Punjab government has extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province, coupling it with a crackdown on educational institutions that violate newly announced school timings. The order, issued by the Home Department, aims to maintain law and order while addressing environmental and administrative concerns.
Under the extended Section 144, public gatherings of more than four people remain prohibited. The display of weapons and use of loudspeakers—except for the call to prayer and Friday sermons—are also restricted. Officials say the decision comes amid rising security alerts and ongoing efforts to prevent potential disturbances across urban and rural districts.
At the same time, the provincial education and environment departments have introduced revised school timings to curb smog-related health risks and manage traffic congestion. Schools opening earlier than 8:45 a.m. (or 9:45 a.m. in some regions) will face heavy penalties ranging from five hundred thousand to one million rupees for non-compliance.
Authorities have warned private and public schools alike to strictly follow the updated schedule, stressing that the measures are designed to protect students’ health and ensure uniformity in academic operations.
These dual initiatives—extending Section 144 and enforcing new school schedules—highlight the Punjab government’s growing focus on maintaining both security and environmental safety. Parents and school administrators are urged to stay informed and comply with the directives to avoid fines and operational disruptions.
