Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has extended winter vacations for all educational institutions until January 15th amid an intense cold wave gripping the region.
According to a notification by the Bhimbhar Deputy Commissioner, schools were originally scheduled to reopen on January 5th after the winter break. However, with parts of the country experiencing extreme weather conditions, the vacation has been prolonged by over a week.
The Bhimbhar DC warned that any school violating the extension would face punitive action, including potential cancellation of its registration. He emphasized that students’ health and safety would be the top priority during this period.
The extension comes on the heels of similar decisions made by educational authorities in other hard-hit regions, including Punjab. With temperatures plummeting to dangerous lows, officials are taking precautions to protect children from exposure during commutes or outdoor activities.
The early January cold snap has already led to travel disruptions, flight cancellations, and closures of highways in affected areas.
By keeping schools closed, AJK hopes to mitigate risks posed by the harsh winter climate. Authorities will reassess conditions closer to January 15th to determine if an additional extension is necessary.
