Cold wave: Punjab school timings changed; now classes to begin at 10 am

The Punjab education department on Thursday changed the timings for all government, private, aided, and other schools in the state due to the intense cold wave.

Now, primary schools (up to Class 5) will function from 10 am to 3 pm, as per an order issued by Education Secretary Anindita Mitra. The middle, high, and senior secondary schools will function from 10 am to 3.20 pm, states the order.

The order adds that the decision has been made due to the intense fog and cold conditions prevailing in the state. The new timings will be effective from January 16 to 21, as per the order.

Earlier, due to intense cold conditions, Punjab twice extended the winter break for schools. The schools were closed from December 24, 2025, to January 13, and reopened on Wednesday (January 14).