In response to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Punjab government has ordered the closure of all schools, colleges, and universities across the state for the next three days. The move comes as the situation at the border remains tense, with heightened security and precautionary measures being enforced in light of recent military actions.
The announcement was made on Thursday evening by Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, who stated, “In view of the evolving situation, it is hereby ordered that all schools, colleges, and universities—government, private, and aided—across the entire Punjab shall remain completely closed for the next three days.”
The closure affects educational institutions throughout the state, including both urban and rural areas, as well as in key border districts such as Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran. These districts, located along Punjab’s 532-km-long border with Pakistan, were already on high alert following increased military activities in the region.
The closure comes a day after India conducted precision air strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in retaliation for a deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam area that killed 26 civilians on April 22. This attack has significantly heightened tensions between the two neighboring nations.
To further bolster security, police personnel leaves have been cancelled across the state. The authorities have also enacted blackouts in several cities, including Pathankot, Mohali, Jalandhar, Amritsar, and Hoshiarpur, as a precautionary measure. In addition, local police forces are conducting increased patrols to maintain law and order amid rising public anxiety.
Tensions surged further on Thursday evening when Indian air defense units successfully intercepted at least eight missiles fired by Pakistan towards the border areas of Jammu. The missile interception was confirmed by the official X account of the Integrated Defence Staff, which praised the effectiveness of India’s defense systems in neutralizing the threat.
As the situation continues to unfold, Punjab remains on high alert, with residents and authorities alike closely monitoring developments along the border. The government’s swift actions in closing educational institutions and tightening security highlight the gravity of the situation and the ongoing efforts to prevent any further escalation.
Sources By Agencies