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

According to a Home Department spokesperson, all forms of sit-ins, rallies, and similar public activities remain banned under the order. The restrictions also prohibit gatherings of four or more people in public areas, the display of weapons, and the use of loudspeakers.

The spokesperson added that the publication or distribution of inflammatory or sectarian material is strictly prohibited. However, exemptions have been granted for wedding ceremonies, funerals, burials, court proceedings, and officials performing their duties.

Authorities said the measure was extended due to persistent security threats, warning that large gatherings could be potential targets for terrorist attacks.

Punjab Warns of Heavy Fines for Schools Violating New Timings

In a separate development, the Punjab government announced strict penalties for schools that fail to comply with the newly enforced operating 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. Institutions found violating the directive will face fines ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1 million.

The DG said the decision was taken in response to deteriorating air quality and rising smog levels. The order takes immediate effect, and violations can be reported via the EPA Helpline 1373 or the Green Punjab App.

Officials have urged school administrations and the public to fully cooperate with the new measures to safeguard public health and environmental safety.