Shab-e-Barat 2026: Punjab and Sindh Declare Public Holiday on February 4. -

The Punjab and Sindh governments have officially announced a public holiday across their respective provinces in observance of Shab-e-Barat. According to formal notifications issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) in Punjab and the School Education Department in Sindh, all government offices and educational institutions will remain closed on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Key Details of the Holiday:

Scope in Punjab: The holiday applies to all provincial government offices, autonomous bodies, local councils, and both government and semi-government educational institutions.
Scope in Sindh: All public and private schools and colleges under the administrative control of the School Education and Literacy Department will remain closed.
Security Arrangements: Authorities have directed the Auqaf Department and law enforcement to ensure strict security and proper arrangements at mosques, shrines, and cemeteries to manage the expected large gatherings of devotees.
Extended Break in Lahore: Reports suggest the Punjab government is also considering an extended 5-day mega weekend in Lahore (Feb 4–8) to include Kashmir Day (Feb 5) and the revival of the Basant festival.

This initiative aims to allow the public to observe the sacred night—marked by prayer, Quranic recitation, and visiting the graves of loved ones—with ease and religious devotion.