Punjab shifts government offices and schools to 7:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. schedule during heatwave

Government offices, service centres, and educational institutions across Punjab will now open early and wrap up by early afternoon, shifting to a 7:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. schedule until further orders, The Hindu reported. ^[1]

The revised hours are set to apply across the state, covering both government offices and schools and colleges, and will remain in place until the government issues new directions. ^[1]

The change takes effect from May 25, 2026, under the government led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. ^[1]

In Amritsar, Deputy Commissioner Dalwinderjit Singh said the administration would focus on making the transition work smoothly for residents seeking services under the new timings. “We will make sure that people do not face any inconvenience. It is the first day, but we will do everything possible to ensure that the system functions properly,” he said. ^[1]

In Mohali, Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal framed the move around health and electricity use, saying the decision was taken keeping public health and power conservation in mind. “This step has been taken due to the prevailing heatwave c,” she said. ^[1]

Punjab government employees welcomed the revised schedule as a practical response to extreme heat and rising electricity use, including heavier air-conditioner demand. “The government’s decision is very appropriate. The heat has increased significantly, so this is a very good move. When the use of air conditioners rises, electricity consumption also increases. This decision will help reduce that burden,” one employee said. ^[1]