As Punjab continues to face an intense cold wave accompanied by dense fog and smog, concerns among parents and students regarding school safety and reopening dates have increased. Addressing these concerns, the Punjab School Education Department (SED) has officially clarified the winter vacation schedule for schools and colleges across the province.
With reduced visibility on highways and record-low temperatures in several districts, authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions to ensure student safety.
Punjab Winter Holidays 2026 – Official Status
Despite widespread speculation on social media about further extensions, the School Education Department Punjab has confirmed that no official change has been made to the existing winter vacation schedule so far.
✔️ Current Official Decision:
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Schools Closed Until: Sunday, January 11, 2026
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Schools Reopen On: Monday, January 12, 2026
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Province: Punjab (Pakistan)
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Reason: Severe cold, smog, and dense fog
The department has emphasized that parents should rely only on official notifications and avoid unverified WhatsApp messages or rumors.
Are Punjab Winter Holidays Being Extended Until January 16?
In recent days, reports suggested that winter holidays might be extended until January 16 due to ongoing fog and cold weather. According to government sources, weather conditions are being reviewed daily, especially visibility levels during early morning hours.
However, no formal notification has been issued yet.
What Authorities Say:
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Weather conditions will be reviewed over the weekend
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If fog reaches hazardous levels, authorities may consider:
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Holiday extension
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Delayed reopening
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Online classes (if required)
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📌 As of now, January 12 remains the confirmed reopening date.
Revised School Timings After Reopening
To reduce health risks caused by cold weather and smog, revised school timings will be implemented once schools reopen.
⏰ Expected School Timings:
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Start Time: 9:30 AM
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Closing Time: 2:30 PM
👕 Uniform Relaxation:
Students will be allowed to wear:
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Warm jackets
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Sweaters
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Caps or mufflers
(even if not part of the official uniform)
Safety Guidelines for Students During Smog & Fog
Health experts and education authorities have issued precautionary instructions for students and parents:
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Face masks recommended to avoid respiratory issues
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Layered warm clothing advised for cold mornings
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School vans instructed to:
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Use fog lights
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Maintain slow speed
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Follow safety protocols strictly
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Parents are also encouraged to keep children at home if they show signs of illness.
Official Sources for Verified Updates
For accurate and timely information, always follow:
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🌐 SED Punjab Website: schools.punjab.gov.pk
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🐦 Official X (Twitter): @SchoolEduPunjab
Avoid relying on unofficial social media posts or forwarded messages.
Conclusion
Punjab schools are scheduled to reopen on Monday, January 12, 2026, under revised timings due to ongoing cold and fog conditions. While there is public demand for extending winter holidays until mid-January, no official extension has been announced yet.
Parents and students are advised to stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and trust only verified updates from the School Education Department.
📌 This page will be updated immediately if a new notification is issued.
