Due to the extreme cold weather in Punjab, the provincial government has extended by a week the winter vacations for playgroup to Class I in the schools because of harsh weather and health risks. However, the schools will remain open for the higher classes in accordance with a new timetable issued by the authorities. A large number of children were reportedly suffering from diseases caused by the cold weather. The parents also faced hardship in dropping their children at schools in the morning, especially in the remote districts. Highlighting the severity of the cold weather, he urged the elderly citizens to prioritise their diet and attire.