Punjab announces school timings after summer vacations

LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced school timings across the province following the end of summer vacations.

According to a notification issued by the Punjab School Education Department, the updated schedule applies to all public schools and will remain in effect until October 15, 2025.

According to the notification, Single-shift schools will operate from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM, Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, they will close at 12:00 PM.

For double-shift schools, the morning shift will be held from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, the morning shift will conclude at 12:00 PM.

The evening shift for double-shift schools will begin at 1:00 PM and continue until 5:30 PM from Monday to Thursday, while on Fridays, the shift will run from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

The revised schedule is designed to facilitate a smooth academic transition post-vacation while considering weather conditions and logistical requirements across the province.

Notably, a vast area of Punjab is currently experiencing devastating floods, affecting the lives of millions. Schools in some cities have been closed due to inundation, as all major rivers—including the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej—are overflowing. The situation worsened after India released water into these rivers, causing them to swell.
Authorities are closely monitoring the flood situation and have advised local administrations to take appropriate action regarding school operations in the affected areas.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an ‘exceptionally high flood’ warning in the Chenab River for the next 36 hours, ARY News reported.

According to the reports, India has opened all channels of the Salal Dam without prior warning to Pakistani officials.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia highlighted that a massive flood wave is likely to reach Head Marala in the coming two days, raising water levels in the Chenab River dangerously high.

The ‘exceptionally high flood’ warning is followed by heavy monsoon rainfall, and the water that has been released from Indian dams, including Thein and Salal.

“All district administrations are ordered to remain on high alert and ensure the presence of commissioners, deputy commissioners, and field officers in vulnerable areas,” said Irfan Ali Kathia.