The School Education Department of Punjab has once again revised school timings across the province in light of an impending heatwave expected to hit the country from next week.

According to a notification issued on Friday, all public and private schools have been directed to implement the new schedule with immediate effect.

The decision comes following an alert from the Pakistan Meteorological Department, warning of an expected rise in temperatures beginning April 14 due to a high-pressure system developing in the upper atmosphere.

New school timings in Punjab

Under the revised schedule, single-shift schools will now operate from 7:30am to 1:00pm from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, schools will close earlier at 11:30am. Teachers, however, will be required to attend school from 7:15am until 1:30pm.

The department had earlier announced new summer timings effective from April 1, but the schedule has now been altered in response to the fresh weather advisory.

The Met Office, in its latest press release, said a significant rise in temperatures is expected across most parts of the country starting Sunday, April 13. The situation is likely to escalate into a severe heatwave in southern regions from Monday, April 14.

The education department has urged school administrations to strictly comply with the revised timings to safeguard the health of students and staff. Parents have also been advised to ensure that children remain hydrated and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.