In a decisive move to protect children from the biting cold, the state governments of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh have announced extended winter holidays for schools. The closures come as a severe cold wave and dense fog continue to grip large parts of northern India, posing significant health risks.
Punjab Extends School Break Till January 7
Punjab's Education Minister, Harjot Singh Bains, officially declared the extension of school holidays until January 7. The order was issued after consultations with the state's Chief Minister, Bhagwant Singh Mann. Minister Bains shared the update on the social media platform X, stating that the directive was in line with the chief minister's instructions to prioritize the safety of students and school staff.
The decision reflects the administration's proactive approach as winter conditions worsen across the region. The primary goal is to safeguard the health and well-being of young students who are vulnerable to illnesses exacerbated by the extreme cold and poor visibility caused by dense fog.
Uttar Pradesh Announces Closure Till January 5
Similarly, the Uttar Pradesh government has taken parallel action. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, directed the closure of all schools up to Class 12 across all educational boards. This includes institutions affiliated with ICSE, CBSE, the state board, and others. The holiday period in UP will last until January 5.
Beyond the school closures, the UP government has issued a series of directives to district officials to manage the cold wave's impact. Authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant through field inspections, ensure adequate distribution of blankets, prevent people from sleeping in the open, and make comprehensive arrangements in all night shelters.
IMD's Weather Warning Prompts Action
The government orders follow explicit weather warnings from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). On Thursday, the IMD forecasted dense fog over several states including Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh. It also issued a cold wave alert for Delhi, Chandigarh, and other northern states as winter tightens its grip.
These pre-emptive closures highlight the growing concern over public health during extreme weather events. By keeping schools shut, the administrations aim to minimize the exposure of children to hazardous conditions, ensuring they remain safe and warm at home until the weather shows signs of improvement.
