Punjab Schools, Colleges Reopen from September 8 After Floods

Punjab schools and colleges are reopening from September 8, 2025, after being closed for nearly two weeks due to heavy floods. The state government has announced a phased reopening plan, with student safety as the top priority.

Punjab Colleges, Private Schools Reopen First

According to Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, private schools, colleges, universities, ITIs, and polytechnic institutes have been allowed to resume classes from September 8. However, institutions must first ensure the structural safety of buildings and cleanliness of premises. District Deputy Commissioners have been given authority to decide if institutions in severely affected areas should remain closed.

Punjab Government Schools Reopening Plan

Government schools are reopening in two stages to ensure safety. On September 8, only teachers and non-teaching staff are required to report for duty. They will inspect classrooms, clean premises, and assess flood damage. Students will return from September 9, provided local authorities grant clearance.

Exceptions in Flood-Affected Districts

Some districts remain exceptions due to severe flood impact. For example, in Ferozepur and Fazilka, floodwaters are still present, leaving sixty-six government schools closed until further notice. Students in these districts will continue with online classes.

Monitoring by Local Authorities

Deputy Commissioners have been tasked with monitoring the reopening process closely. In Sangrur, DC Rahul Chaba directed school staff to carry out visual inspections and submit safety reports by the evening of September 8. Officials have reiterated that classes will only resume once buildings are declared safe.

Background of Flood Closures

Educational institutions across Punjab were ordered shut on August 27, 2025, after heavy monsoon floods inundated more than one thousand four hundred villages and damaged infrastructure. With water levels now receding in most areas, the state government has initiated a phased reopening plan, leaving discretion to local administrations for final decisions.