The Punjab government has announced that all schools across the state will remain closed on September 8 due to the worsening flood situation. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
According to officials, several districts are still struggling with waterlogging, damaged infrastructure, and sanitation issues. In view of these conditions, the Education Department has directed that reopening will only be allowed once schools are declared safe after thorough inspections. District authorities have been instructed to examine classrooms, toilets, and drinking water facilities before granting clearance.
Earlier, the government had planned a phased reopening of schools and colleges beginning September 8. However, with the flood toll climbing and more than 2,000 villages affected, the Education Ministry decided to extend closures in many regions. Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, and Fazilka are among the worst-hit districts where educational institutions are unlikely to reopen immediately.
Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains emphasized that the safety of children is the top priority and that no school would resume classes until local inspections confirm structural and hygiene standards. Parents’ associations have welcomed the move, describing it as a necessary step to prevent risk to children in the wake of the disaster.
Meanwhile, relief and rescue efforts continue across the state, with more than 22,000 people evacuated and hundreds of relief camps operational. Authorities are also taking measures to prevent disease outbreaks as floodwaters slowly recede.
The government has assured that academic schedules will be adjusted, and compensatory classes will be planned once normalcy is restored in affected districts.
