Punjab School Accused of Turning Off Fans to Reduce Electricity Bills Amid Heatwave

A government primary school in Punjab’s Chiniot district is facing public criticism after reports surfaced that classroom fans were allegedly switched off to reduce electricity expenses, leaving young students to endure extreme heat during school hours.

The incident has sparked outrage online and raised fresh concerns about conditions in public schools across Pakistan.

According to reports, the incident took place at Government Primary School, Chak 131, Lonewala, in Chiniot, where students were reportedly attending classes without functioning fans despite soaring temperatures in the province. 

School staff allegedly told students the fans were turned off because electricity bills had become too expensive to manage.

Videos Spark Public Outrage

The controversy gained momentum after videos linked to the school circulated on social media. The footage reportedly showed children sitting in overcrowded classrooms in sweltering conditions, prompting criticism from parents, education activists, and social media users alike.

Many questioned how children could focus on learning in such an uncomfortable environment, especially during an ongoing heatwave affecting multiple parts of Punjab.

Heatwave Intensifies Concerns Over Student Safety

The incident comes as Punjab continues to experience dangerously high temperatures. Concerns about student safety have already pushed authorities to announce extended summer vacations for schools across the province.

The Lahore High Court recently dismissed a petition challenging the Punjab government’s decision to extend summer holidays for nearly three months due to worsening heatwave conditions. The school fan controversy has now added another layer to the debate surrounding student welfare during extreme weather.

Authorities Consider Action Against School Management

Education officials reportedly stated that the school had been outsourced under the Punjab Education Foundation system. Authorities are now said to be reviewing the matter and considering action against the operator responsible for managing the institution.

Officials have also indicated that a formal notice may be issued as part of the inquiry process.

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Rising Electricity Costs Affect Public Institutions

The incident has once again highlighted the financial pressures facing schools and public institutions across Pakistan due to rising electricity prices. Many educational institutions are struggling to manage increasing utility costs while maintaining basic facilities for students.

Discussions about energy-efficient solutions, including inverter fans and power-consumption-reduction measures, have become increasingly common amid the country’s ongoing energy crisis.

Public Demands Better School Conditions

Parents and education experts argue that financial constraints should never compromise children’s health, comfort, or access to quality education.

Following the incident, many social media users demanded stricter oversight of outsourced schools and called for immediate improvements in classroom infrastructure.

The Punjab education department has yet to issue a detailed public response, but the controversy has reignited broader discussions about education standards, infrastructure gaps, and student welfare in government-run schools across the province.