Chandigarh: The Punjab government has decided to extend school holidays across the state in view of severe cold weather and dense fog. Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said the decision was taken on the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Bhagwant Singh Mann, giving priority to the health and safety of students and school staff.
All government, aided, recognised and private schools in the state will remain closed till January 13. Schools will reopen as usual from January 14.
Sharing the information on social media platform X, Bains said the decision was taken keeping in mind the continuously falling temperatures and persistent fog across the state. For the past several days, most parts of Punjab have been witnessing dense fog, leading to very low visibility, especially during morning hours.
The Meteorological Department has also issued alerts regarding cold and foggy conditions, increasing risks for children commuting to schools early in the day. Earlier, school holidays had been extended till January 7.
The government’s move has brought relief to parents and teachers. The decision is being seen as particularly important for children living in rural and remote areas. The state government clarified that if weather conditions improve, all schools will function normally from January 14 following regular timings and arrangements.
