As January brings its deepest chill, Punjab residents are asking: will winter vacations be extended this year?
Frequent dense fog and severe cold have affected daily life, making early morning travel risky. Parents, students, and educators are watching closely.
In late December 2025, the Punjab Education Department announced winter vacations starting in late December and ending in early January 2026. Schools are currently scheduled to reopen in the second week of January.
However, ongoing cold waves and thick fog have sparked informal discussions about a possible extension. Authorities in the past have adjusted school calendars during harsh weather to protect students’ health. For more updates on Punjab’s student welfare initiatives, check out our coverage of the Laptops and Bikes for Students: Punjab Government’s Big Move program.
Punjab has a precedent for extending winter vacations. In late 2023, authorities delayed reopening until January 9 due to severe cold. Similarly, in early 2025, public speculation arose about delaying the term start because of extreme weather. These patterns show flexibility in school schedules when conditions worsen in late December and early January.
January usually brings colder temperatures than December, with dense fog and limited visibility in central and northern districts. Such conditions pose risks for young children and can complicate daily travel. Authorities often weigh health and safety concerns when deciding whether to extend breaks.
In South Asia, similar climates have prompted school authorities to lengthen winter holidays. Decisions are typically based on student safety, road conditions, and attendance rates. Education officials in Punjab have cited both low attendance and health risks as reasons for past extensions.
The debate among parents and teachers focuses on balancing learning continuity with safety. Some support extended breaks to avoid travel hazards and cold-related illnesses. Others argue that prolonging holidays disrupts academic schedules and planning.
As of now, no province-wide official announcement has been made about extending winter vacations. Authorities will monitor weather forecasts, fog conditions, and attendance patterns before making a final decision. The Punjab School Education Department will weigh all factors carefully to ensure student safety without unnecessarily disrupting academics.
