The Punjab government has announced an extension of winter holidays for all schools across the state, citing worsening cold weather and dense fog that continue to disrupt daily life.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains confirmed that all government, aided, recognized, and private schools in Punjab will now remain closed until January 7, with regular classes resuming from January 8.
The decision has brought relief to parents, students, and teachers who have been struggling with extreme winter conditions and poor visibility during early morning hours.
Schools Were Earlier Closed Till December 31
Punjab schools were initially scheduled to remain shut from December 24 to December 31 as part of winter vacations. However, the ongoing cold wave and persistent fog forced the state government to reassess the situation.
With temperatures dipping sharply and weather conditions becoming increasingly hazardous, especially during school commute hours, authorities decided to extend the break to protect children and school staff.
Harjot Bains Announces Decision on X
Education Minister Harjot Bains shared the official update on social media platform X, stating that the move was taken after receiving directions from Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
ਮਾਨਯੋਗ ਮੁੱਖ ਮੰਤਰੀ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਸ.ਭਗਵੰਤ ਸਿੰਘ ਮਾਨ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਦਿਸ਼ਾ ਨਿਰਦੇਸ਼ਾਂ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ, ਸੂਬੇ ਵਿੱਚ ਲਗਾਤਾਰ ਵੱਧ ਰਹੀ ਠੰਡ ਅਤੇ ਧੁੰਦ ਨੂੰ ਦੇਖਦਿਆਂ, ਬੱਚਿਆਂ ਅਤੇ ਸਟਾਫ ਦੀ ਸਿਹਤ ਅਤੇ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਆ ਨੂੰ ਧਿਆਨ ਵਿੱਚ ਰੱਖਦਿਆਂ ਸੂਬੇ ਦੇ ਸਾਰੇ ਸਰਕਾਰੀ, ਏਡਿਡ, ਮਾਨਤਾ ਪ੍ਰਾਪਤ ਅਤੇ ਪ੍ਰਾਈਵੇਟ ਸਕੂਲਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ 7 ਜਨਵਰੀ ਤੱਕ ਛੁੱਟੀਆਂ ਕੀਤੀਆਂ ਜਾਂਦੀਆਂ…
— Harjot Singh Bains (@harjotbains) December 31, 2025
He said the government had carefully considered the health and safety of students and school employees before taking this step. The announcement made it clear that schools will reopen on January 8 as per the regular academic schedule.
Cold and Fog Continue to Affect Daily Life in Punjab
Punjab has been experiencing an intense winter spell over the past several days. Dense fog has reduced visibility across many districts, while icy winds and low temperatures have made early morning travel risky.
School-going children, especially those in rural and semi-urban areas, are among the most affected, as they often rely on public transport or walk long distances to reach their classrooms.
The extended holiday period is expected to reduce health risks such as cold-related illnesses, respiratory issues, and road accidents caused by poor visibility.
Relief for Parents and Teachers
The government’s decision has been widely welcomed by parents and educators. Many families were concerned about sending young children to school in such harsh weather, particularly during peak fog hours.
Teachers and school administrators also expressed support for the move, saying it would help ensure a safer and more comfortable return to normal classes once weather conditions improve.
What Happens Next?
With the latest announcement, all schools in Punjab will remain closed until January 7. Regular classes are scheduled to resume from January 8, provided weather conditions stabilize.
Education officials have advised schools to be prepared to restart academic activities smoothly once the holidays end.