The Punjab government has officially announced extended winter vacations for schools in Murree and Kotli Sattian, citing severe weather conditions and safety concerns for students and staff. The decision comes as part of the government’s annual winter policy for hilly areas that experience extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and difficult travel conditions.
According to an official notification issued by the Punjab Education Department through the District Education Authority (DEA) Murree, all public and private schools will remain closed from December 22 to March 7, with academic activities set to resume on March 9.
The announcement has brought relief to parents, students, and teachers who were facing challenges due to worsening winter conditions in the mountainous region.
Official Notification Details
The notification was issued by the Chief Executive Officer of the District Education Authority Murree, confirming that the extended winter vacations apply to all government and private schools operating in Murree and Kotli Sattian.
Key points of the notification include:
- Winter vacations will begin on December 22
- Schools will remain closed until March 7
- Educational institutions will reopen on March 9
- The decision applies to both public and private sector schools
Authorities emphasized that the notification must be implemented strictly across the district without exception.
Areas Covered Under the Decision
The extended winter vacations apply specifically to Murree and Kotli Sattian, two regions located in northern Punjab that are known for their harsh winters.
These areas typically experience:
- Heavy and frequent snowfall
- Sub-zero temperatures
- Fog and icy road conditions
- Landslides and road closures
- Disruptions in daily transport
Due to these factors, regular school attendance becomes unsafe during peak winter months, especially for young children.
Reason Behind Extended Winter Vacations
Officials stated that the primary reason behind the extended winter holidays is student safety. In previous winters, several issues were reported, including school transport delays, accidents on icy roads, and increased illness among students.
The main reasons cited by authorities include:
- Risk of accidents due to slippery roads
- Health concerns related to extreme cold
- Difficulty in accessing schools in remote areas
- Unreliable transport services during snowfall
The Punjab government reiterated that protecting children from avoidable risks remains its top priority.
Instructions for School Administrations
Along with the announcement of winter vacations, the District Education Authority issued specific instructions for school administrations.
School heads have been directed to:
- Complete all midterm examinations before December 22
- Ensure exam results are announced before the winter break
- Inform parents and students about the reopening schedule
- Secure school buildings and facilities during the closure
These steps aim to maintain academic discipline and ensure a smooth transition once schools reopen.
Impact on Students
The decision has been widely welcomed by students, many of whom travel long distances on foot or rely on school transport. During winter, steep roads and icy pathways pose serious risks, particularly for younger students.
Extended winter vacations will help students:
- Avoid daily travel in dangerous weather
- Reduce exposure to cold-related illnesses
- Stay safe during peak snowfall months
- Resume studies once conditions improve
Students have expressed relief, saying the closure will allow them to focus on health and safety without academic pressure.
Parents React to the Announcement
Parents across Murree and Kotli Sattian have praised the Punjab government’s decision, calling it practical and necessary. Many parents had already raised concerns about sending children to school during extreme winter conditions.
Common concerns highlighted by parents include:
- Children slipping on icy roads
- School vans unable to reach remote villages
- Increased cases of flu and chest infections
- Delays and cancellations of transport services
With schools closed until March, parents can now plan the winter season with peace of mind.
Teachers and Staff Support the Move
Teachers and non-teaching staff have also supported the decision, noting that teaching during winter becomes challenging due to low attendance and weather disruptions.
Educators pointed out that:
- Many teachers commute from nearby cities
- Snowfall often blocks access roads
- Classrooms remain extremely cold
- Regular teaching schedules are disrupted
The extended break will allow teachers to resume work under safer and more productive conditions.
Academic Planning After Reopening
The Punjab Education Department has assured that academic calendars will be adjusted after schools reopen in March. Authorities may revise lesson plans to compensate for the extended closure.
Possible steps include:
- Adjusted syllabi timelines
- Revised assessment schedules
- Focused teaching strategies
- Extra academic support if required
Officials said further guidelines will be issued if necessary.
Winter Vacation Policy in Hilly Areas
Murree and Kotli Sattian have historically received extended winter vacations due to their geography. Every year, the Punjab government reviews weather reports and recommendations from local administrations before announcing closures.
Similar decisions have been taken in past years due to:
- Heavy snowfall
- Emergency situations
- Road safety concerns
- Weather advisories
This policy reflects a long-term approach to managing education in regions with extreme seasonal conditions.
No Mandatory Online Classes
Authorities clarified that no mandatory online classes will be conducted during the winter vacation period. The decision takes into account limited internet access and frequent power outages in hilly areas.
However, some private schools may offer optional activities such as:
- Homework assignments
- Reading tasks
- Informal online sessions
Participation in such activities will remain voluntary.
Coordination with Local Authorities
The decision was made after consultation with:
- District administration Murree
- Weather and climate experts
- Education officials
- Emergency response departments
Local authorities will continue monitoring weather conditions and ensure public safety throughout the winter season.
Conclusion – Extended Winter Vacations Announced for Murree Schools
The announcement of extended winter vacations for Murree schools highlights the Punjab government’s commitment to student safety and welfare. With schools set to remain closed from December 22 to March 7, families can now prepare for winter without uncertainty.
Schools will reopen on March 9, once weather conditions improve. Authorities have urged parents and school administrations to comply fully with the notification and remain alert for any further updates. The decision is expected to significantly reduce winter-related risks while ensuring a smooth return to academic life in the spring.