The Punjab School Education Department has ordered the immediate evacuation of all government schools operating in dangerous buildings, issuing fresh directives to district authorities to ensure student safety.

In a notification, the department directed that no student should be allowed to enter, sit, study, or hold assemblies in buildings declared unsafe under any circumstances.

All such structures should be sealed immediately, and clear warning signboards must be displayed outside the premises.

The department warned that in the event of any untoward incident, the relevant Chief Executive Officer (CEO), District Education Officer (DEO), and head teacher would be held responsible and could face strict legal action.

The new instructions also cover schools where construction or repair work is underway.

Officials have been told to make sure that any repair or construction work on school premises is carried out safely.

This includes clearly blocking off work areas and ensuring that students stay well away from construction zones to prevent any accidents.

Teachers concerned must remain present to monitor safety compliance.

The notification cautioned that if an incident similar to the previous Sialkot school tragedy were to recur, it would be treated as criminal negligence on the part of those responsible.

The School Education Department said the measures were aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring a safe learning environment for students across Punjab.