Punjab Extends School Holidays Till Jan 13 Amid Dense Fog, Severe Cold Wave

Chandigarh / Punjab — The Punjab government has officially announced a further extension of school holidays till January 13, 2026, for all educational institutions across the state due to dense fog and severe cold wave conditions affecting normal life and student safety. The decision comes as temperatures plunge and visibility remains low in multiple districts of Punjab.

Holiday Extension Confirmed by Education Minister

Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains declared the revised holiday schedule on January 7, stating that all government, aided, recognised, and private schools will remain closed until January 13, 2026. The announcement was posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), citing directives from Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and prioritising the health and safety of students, teachers and support staff amid extreme cold and foggy conditions. 

Schools, which were earlier expected to re-open on January 8 after the winter break, will now resume classes on January 14, 2026. Authorities have also warned that further extensions may occur if weather conditions deteriorate. 

Severe Weather: Cold Wave and Dense Fog Impact

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that dense to very dense fog will continue across Punjab from January 8 to January 12, 2026, significantly affecting visibility levels, especially in the early mornings. Minimum temperatures across the state have dropped sharply, hovering around 7°C, with several districts experiencing temperatures significantly below seasonal averages.

This combination of cold wave conditions and persistent fog has disrupted transportation and posed health risks to children and commuters, prompting the education department to take precautionary measures.

Winter Vacation Schedule 2025–26 (Revised)

According to education department sources, the updated winter holiday timeline now reads:

• Winter Vacations Began: December 21, 2025

• Original End Date: December 31, 2025

• First Extension: January 7, 2026

• Latest Extension: January 13, 2026

• School Reopening: January 14, 2026

This year’s winter break is notably longer compared to previous years, reflecting the severity of current weather conditions and the government’s attempt to balance student welfare with academic continuity. 

Impact on Students and Academic Plans

The extended break has drawn mixed reactions from parents and educators. While many appreciate the emphasis on health and safety, others are concerned about loss of instructional time, especially for students preparing for important examinations. School administrators have been directed to maintain communication with families and share online learning resources, where feasible.

Statewide Weather Alerts and Safety Tips

In addition to school closures, the IMD has issued cold wave and dense fog warnings across northern India, advising residents to limit outdoor activities and ensure proper clothing and heating, especially for young children and the elderly. Commuters are urged to use fog lamps and follow safety protocols during reduced visibility hours.

Region-Wide Holiday Trends

Punjab’s move mirrors similar decisions in neighbouring states, where schools have also been closed or had vacations extended due to extreme winter conditions. States such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Tripura have issued winter break orders, adjusted holiday schedules, or temporary shutdowns in response to cold and fog conditions.