CHANDIGARH: Amid heightened security concerns along the Indo-Pak border, authorities in Punjab’s border districts have issued fresh advisories, including voluntary blackouts and the closure of educational institutions.
In Ferozepur and Pathankot, the district administrations have urged residents to switch off lights voluntarily at 8 PM and avoid stepping out unless necessary. All educational institutions including schools, colleges, and universities—will remain shut on Monday in five border districts: Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, and Gurdaspur.
An advisory issued by the Ferozepur district administration stated:
“Dear all, advisories for today: Kindly switch off the lights voluntarily at 8 PM, avoid moving outside unless necessary, stay calm and stay alert to the messages from the district administration. The situation is peaceful currently; intimation will be made in case of any event of threat. Schools will remain closed tomorrow in Ferozepur. Thank you for the cooperation and resilience displayed.”—Deputy Commissioner, Ferozepur.
Sources said that Pathankot district officials have issued similar instructions.
Meanwhile, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced that all educational institutions across the rest of the state will reopen on Monday, with regular classes and examinations to resume as per schedule. However, he emphasized that student safety remains paramount.
Bains directed all institutions to ensure food, shelter, and essential services for students staying on campus. “No student should be forced to leave if they are unable or unwilling to do so due to safety, transport, or personal reasons,” he said.
The minister added that universities have been instructed to accommodate students who choose to return home, ensuring they are not penalized academically. Examinations may be rescheduled or alternative arrangements made as needed.
To streamline support, Bains ordered the appointment of nodal officers and the establishment of helpdesks across institutions to address student concerns swiftly.