Punjab may extend school holidays until mid-April

Punjab's School Education Department is considering an extension of school holidays across the province until April 15 as part of emergency steps tied to the ongoing energy crisis. The proposed move would apply to both public and private institutions.

Officials say the idea has backing from the provincial energy department, which has recommended curbing non-essential activity to ease pressure on fuel and electricity consumption. Authorities believe that reducing daily school transport movement and lowering power use in school buildings could provide meaningful relief during a strained period.

Schools had already been closed from March 10 to March 31, but worsening shortages have prompted discussion on prolonging the break by another two weeks. The proposal, if approved, would affect millions of students, teachers, and school support staff across Punjab.