The Government of Punjab has officially declared Monday 13 October 2025, as a public holiday across various districts of the province. The announcement was made through an official notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD), Punjab, confirming the closure of government offices, educational institutions, and selected public departments.
This decision comes in light of recent administrative and security developments in certain areas, aimed at ensuring public safety and maintaining peaceful civic operations.
Official Notification from Punjab Government
According to the notification released late Sunday evening, the public holiday on 13 October 2025 will apply to all government offices, autonomous bodies, and local councils under the administrative control of the Punjab Government.
Essential services such as hospitals, emergency departments, and law enforcement agencies will, however, continue to function as usual.
The notification further directs all administrative heads to implement the holiday order immediately and ensure the smooth functioning of essential services during the off day.
Reason Behind the Holiday Announcement
As per credible sources within the Punjab administration, the one-day public holiday has been announced due to the prevailing law and order situation in certain districts. Authorities have stated that the decision was made as a precautionary measure to avoid any potential unrest and to ensure the safety of citizens, particularly students and public employees.
This move follows a detailed review conducted by the Home Department and the District Coordination Committees in Punjab.
Districts Where the Holiday Will Be Observed
While the holiday applies to all government departments in Jhelum, Gujrat, and selected adjoining districts, the Punjab Government clarified that regular activities will continue in other cities, including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
Private organizations have been advised to follow the government’s lead, although participation is optional for the private sector.
Educational Institutions to Remain Closed
The Punjab School Education Department (SED) confirmed that all public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the notified districts will remain closed on Monday, October 13, 2025.
Heads of institutions have been directed to:
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Inform students and parents promptly.
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Ensure security measures for school property.
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Resume regular classes from Tuesday, 14 October 2025, unless new directions are issued.
Banks and Public Services Update
While government banks and offices in the notified areas will remain closed, ATM services and digital banking platforms will continue to operate normally. Citizens can access online bill payments and cash withdrawals without disruption.
The State Bank of Pakistan is expected to release a clarification for nationwide financial institutions.
When Will Offices and Schools Reopen?
According to officials, normal operations will resume on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, across Punjab, unless any further extension is issued. The situation will be monitored closely by the provincial administration to ensure stability before reopening.
Final Words
The announcement of a public holiday on October 13, 2025, reflects the Punjab Government’s proactive approach to ensuring public order and safety. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and avoid relying on social media rumors regarding the closure or reopening schedule.
This one-day closure aims to stabilize local conditions while allowing authorities to maintain peaceful administrative control throughout the province.