Punjab continues to reel under extreme cold wave conditions as temperatures across several districts have dipped sharply. In view of the worsening weather and concerns over children’s health, the Punjab government has announced an extension of school holidays until January 13. The decision applies to all government, aided, recognised, and private schools across the state.

Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains confirmed the development in a post on social media platform X. He stated that the decision was taken under the directives of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, keeping in mind the increasing cold, dense fog, and safety of students and school staff. Authorities stressed that precautionary measures were necessary due to the harsh weather conditions.

The minister further clarified that all schools will resume regular operations from January 14. This is the second extension of the winter break, as earlier the government had announced a holiday extension on December 31, directing schools to remain closed until January 7. The continued drop in temperatures prompted the latest decision.

Also Read: Uttar Pradesh Extends School Holidays Till January 5 Amid Intense Cold Wave

Several parts of Punjab recorded near-freezing temperatures, with Bathinda emerging as the coldest location at 4.6 degrees Celsius. Other districts also witnessed low minimum temperatures, including Ludhiana at 6.6 degrees, Patiala at 7.1 degrees, Amritsar at 7.5 degrees, and Gurdaspur at 5.7 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh recorded a minimum of 7.6 degrees Celsius.

The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for cold weather in districts such as Mohali, Nawanshahr, Rupnagar, and Patiala. Officials noted that maximum temperatures across the state have fallen by nearly two degrees in the past 24 hours, remaining three degrees below normal. Night temperatures have also shown a similar declining trend.

With weather conditions expected to remain severe, the state government reiterated its commitment to prioritising public health and safety. Parents and schools have been advised to stay alert to further advisories as Punjab continues to experience one of its harshest winter spells this season.

Also Read: Uttar Pradesh Schools Closed Till January 1 Over Intense Cold Wave