The Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab has revised working hours for all government offices, service centres, and educational institutions — including government, aided, and private schools — effective Monday, 26 May 2025, in response to intensifying heatwave conditions across the state. Under the new schedule, all affected establishments will operate from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm until further orders.

What the New Schedule Covers

The revised timings apply uniformly to all government offices, service centres, and schools — both government-run and private — across Punjab. The decision was taken to shield employees, students, and the public from peak afternoon heat, while also easing pressure on the state's power grid during high-demand daytime hours. No end date has been specified; the order will remain in force until the government issues fresh directions.

How Employees and Officials Have Responded

The move has drawn broad appreciation from government employees. One staffer described the decision as 'very appropriate,' noting that the sharp rise in temperatures had made daytime office hours increasingly difficult. 'When the use of air conditioners rises, electricity consumption also increases. This decision will help reduce that burden,' the employee said.

A second employee said the early-morning start and pre-noon finish would provide 'relief during the hottest hours of the day.' A third echoed the sentiment, specifically welcoming the likely reduction in air-conditioner usage and peak electricity demand.

District Administration Gears Up for Implementation

Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Dalwinderjit Singh said the district administration would ensure smooth rollout of the revised schedule. '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. He also urged residents to participate in the upcoming 26 July elections without hesitation.

Mohali Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal said the order was driven by twin concerns — public health and power conservation. 'Weather forecasts indicate that the extreme heat may continue in the coming days. People will get relief as they can reach offices early in the morning and avoid exposure during the afternoon heat,' she said.

Broader Heatwave Context

Punjab is among several northern Indian states experiencing severe heatwave conditions over the past week. Authorities across the region have been adopting precautionary measures — from revised timings to public health advisories — to manage the health and energy impact of the prolonged heat spell. This is not the first time Punjab has adjusted office hours during summer; similar orders were issued during peak heat periods in previous years, though the current directive is notably broader in scope, covering private schools alongside government institutions.

With forecasts suggesting no immediate let-up in temperatures, the revised schedule is expected to remain in place for at least the near term, and further adjustments cannot be ruled out if conditions worsen.