A severe cold wave sweeping across North India has disrupted normal life, prompting state governments to take immediate action to protect school children. As temperatures plummet and dense fog blankets the region, authorities have announced extended holidays and revised schedules for educational institutions.
Uttar Pradesh Announces Stringent Measures
In one of the most decisive responses, the Uttar Pradesh government has ordered all schools, both government and private, to remain closed until January 1, 2026. The directive comes as a direct response to the biting cold and persistent fog affecting multiple districts. Furthermore, the state has revised school timings for when they reopen. From December 29, secondary schools will operate from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, a shift from the earlier 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM schedule, to shield students from the harsh morning chill.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken personal charge of the situation. During a review in Gorakhpur, he instructed District Magistrates to remain vigilant and enforce closures as needed. Emphasizing sensitivity towards the vulnerable, he highlighted the government's focus on the safety of the poor, travelers, and young children. The Chief Minister also advocated for the use of virtual learning modes to ensure educational continuity without compromising student safety during this cold wave.
Bihar, Jharkhand, and Himachal Follow Suit
The intense cold has not spared neighboring states. In Bihar, districts including Patna, Saharsa, and Nalanda have declared school holidays until December 31. Similar precautions are in place in Jharkhand, where local administrations have either closed schools or permitted higher classes to function with delayed timings to avoid the early morning freeze.
Himachal Pradesh is grappling with a different facet of winter—heavy snowfall. With roads turning treacherous and visibility dropping, the state government has proactively extended winter holidays for schools until December 31. This decision aims to prevent any accidents and ensure the safety of students and staff navigating the hazardous conditions.
Contrast in Other Regions and Official Advisory
While North India battles the cold, schools in South and East India are functioning as usual. States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, West Bengal, and Odisha have reported normal weather and regular school schedules for December 29. Rajasthan is observing its pre-scheduled winter holidays, with no additional emergency closures announced.
Authorities have issued a clear advisory for parents and students: rely solely on official announcements for updates on holidays and timings. Given the rapidly changing winter conditions in the north, decisions are often made at short notice to prioritize safety. Parents are urged to monitor verified channels from their respective district administrations for the latest information.
