Punjab Government Closes Schools Up to 10th Class Due to Severe Weather Conditions
Chandigarh, January 7 : In response to a period of harsh weather affecting the region, the Punjab government has ordered the temporary closure of all schools up to the 10th grade. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced the decision on January 7, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding students’ health as temperatures continue to drop.
The closure applies to government, government-aided, and private institutions, which will remain shut from January 8 to January 14. This decisive action comes as cold waves and foggy conditions intensify across Punjab, making it difficult for students to attend classes safely. The Chief Minister’s statement highlighted the urgent need to protect children from the potentially harmful impact of the current weather patterns.
“The well-being of students is our foremost concern,” said CM Bhagwant Mann. “The inclement weather could pose significant health risks for children, especially young students. In the larger interest of student safety, this temporary closure is essential.” By issuing this directive, the Punjab government aims to reduce the exposure of school-aged children to freezing temperatures and health risks that may arise from prolonged exposure to such conditions.
In many parts of Punjab, temperatures have dipped to unusually low levels, prompting additional precautions to protect public health. For students and parents alike, the school closure will provide relief from the need to travel early in the morning when temperatures are at their lowest. CM Mann acknowledged these challenges, noting that the government is committed to creating safe learning environments and will continue to prioritize measures that support student well-being.
Punjab has seen a wave of unpredictable weather this winter season, marked by dense fog and cold temperatures that often disrupt visibility and increase the risk of respiratory issues. The decision to temporarily close schools was taken with these factors in mind, aiming to prevent children from needing to travel under challenging weather conditions. Experts have suggested that prolonged exposure to the current cold weather, particularly for younger children, can heighten susceptibility to colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses.
This directive applies to all school grades up to 10th, covering students typically aged 5 to 15, who are among the most vulnerable to severe weather impacts. In addition to protecting their health, the closure aims to reduce pressure on families who might otherwise struggle with transportation and attendance in these adverse weather conditions.
The Punjab Education Department has confirmed it will monitor the weather situation closely over the next week and will advise on any further measures if necessary. School administrations across the state have been instructed to comply with the closure order and notify parents and students of the decision promptly. For students preparing for upcoming exams, the Education Department is considering rescheduling tests and other important activities to ensure minimal disruption to the academic calendar.
Punjab is not alone in taking these precautionary measures; several other northern states have also adopted temporary school closures to address similar weather-related challenges this winter. This preventive approach reflects a growing awareness of the need to balance educational commitments with health and safety, particularly during periods of extreme weather.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reassured the public that the Punjab government remains committed to addressing such situations promptly to minimize any negative impact on public health. He extended his gratitude to the state’s education staff, parents, and students for their understanding and cooperation during this period.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety of our children, and we will continue to monitor the weather patterns closely to determine if further action is required,” Mann added. The state’s decision underscores its dedication to the welfare of its citizens, especially the younger population.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay informed through official updates from local schools and the Education Department. Authorities have advised them to keep children indoors as much as possible and avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions stabilize.
As Punjab braces for a few more days of extreme winter weather, this school closure serves as a preventive measure, ensuring that students stay safe and healthy. The government’s quick response to the situation reinforces its commitment to creating secure environments that prioritize the physical well-being of children, setting a responsible example in times of environmental challenges.
