Chandigarh, 10 December 2024: Punjab is grappling with a cold wave following recent rains, prompting the state government to declare holidays in all schools from December 24 to December 31.
The Education Department issued the orders on Monday, applying to all government, private, aided, and recognized schools.
The Education Minister has warned of strict action against institutions violating the directive. Punjab has 19,000 government and 8,000 private schools, catering to around 35 lakh students.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has predicted a significant drop in temperatures over the next few days. On Monday, the maximum temperature in Punjab fell 2.4 degrees below normal, with Bathinda recording the highest at 22.3°C.
The department forecasts a cold wave lasting four days, with night temperatures expected to drop by 2-3 degrees during this period. Weather conditions are likely to remain dry.