With the arrival of colder weather, the Punjab government is preparing to announce the winter vacation schedule for schools and other educational institutions.
As per the previous practice, the Schools Education Department is likely to declare a two-week break in December to protect students and staff from the harsh winter conditions.
In 2023, the provincial government initially announced a break from December 18 to December 31. However, due to persistent severe weather, including dense fog and freezing temperatures, the holidays were extended until January 9.
The mercury had dropped to around 7-8 degrees Celsius, making it difficult for students to commute and attend classes, prompting widespread demands from parents and teachers for the extension.
For 2024, the government is expected to follow a similar timeline, with schools likely to close on December 21 (Saturday) and reopen on January 1 (Wednesday). However, the final decision will be made by the relevant authorities, considering the weather forecast and public demand.
Last year’s fog and cold waves severely impacted daily life in Punjab, especially in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, where visibility on roads was reduced to a few meters in the mornings. Parents are again urging the authorities to monitor the weather closely and prioritize the safety of students.
