Schools across Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh will stay shut tomorrow. This closure comes from a mix of festival celebrations and extended winter vacations. Many regions face severe cold weather, prompting authorities to prioritize student safety.
Festival Celebrations Drive Closures
Tomorrow marks Makar Sankranti, a major harvest festival celebrated nationwide. In Tamil Nadu, people observe it as Pongal. Punjab and parts of north India call it Lohri. Gujarat celebrates Uttarayan, while Assam marks Magh Bihu. These festivals often lead to school holidays, giving students a festive break.
Delhi Schools on Winter Vacation
In Delhi, schools will remain closed on Tuesday, January 14, 2026. The Directorate of Education had already scheduled winter vacations from January 1 to January 15. Makar Sankranti is not a gazetted holiday here, but the ongoing winter break covers the day.
Punjab Faces Cold Wave Extensions
Punjab is grappling with intense cold and dense fog. The India Meteorological Department issued red alerts for districts like Bhatinda and Firozpur. Orange alerts cover Amritsar and Ludhiana. Initially, winter holidays ended on January 7, but the government extended them to January 13. Schools are set to reopen tomorrow, but parents urge further extensions due to safety concerns during early commutes.
Chandigarh Extends Holidays Further
Chandigarh has prolonged winter vacations until January 17, 2026. Schools will reopen on January 19, as January 18 is a Sunday. This decision responds to plunging temperatures and fog, aiming to protect students. The IMD has warned of cold conditions persisting till January 17.
Impact on Students and Parents
The closures affect thousands of students. In North India, Lohri festivities align with winter break ends, adding to holiday time. Southern states like Tamil Nadu see Pongal coinciding with school holidays. Authorities emphasize that these measures address both cultural observances and weather challenges.
Local media reports highlight ongoing appeals for extended breaks in Punjab due to cold waves. The blend of festivals and winter extensions ensures students enjoy a safe, festive period without academic disruptions.
