The Punjab government has announced an extension in winter vacations for schools across the province due to intense cold weather and persistent fog.
Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat confirmed that winter holidays have been extended until January 19, 2026, according to local news channel.
Under the revised schedule, all public and private schools in Punjab will now reopen on January 19 instead of January 12.
The decision was taken to safeguard the health and safety of students, particularly in view of reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions caused by dense fog in several districts.
Officials said the ongoing cold wave and worsening weather conditions posed serious risks for children commuting to schools, prompting the authorities to extend the break.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), extreme cold conditions continue to grip parts of the country. Temperatures in Skardu have reportedly dropped to minus 12 degrees Celsius, while Punjab’s plains remain engulfed in thick fog during early morning and night hours.
Parents and teachers have welcomed the move, calling it a necessary step to protect students during harsh weather. The Punjab Education Department has advised parents, students, and school administrations to stay connected with its official website and social media platforms for any further updates or changes regarding school reopening dates.
The government said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and take further decisions if weather conditions worsen.
