UP School Holidays: A severe cold wave has gripped Uttar Pradesh, disrupting daily life and forcing authorities to take precautionary measures to protect children. A sharp drop in temperature has been
reported across Varanasi and several parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, along with dense fog and poor visibility.
In view of children’s health and safety, the Varanasi district administration has ordered the closure of all schools up to Class 5 for Friday. The order applies to government, private and aided schools and has been implemented with immediate effect. Officials said the decision was taken as the cold wave continues to intensify and visibility remains dangerously low during morning hours.
The impact of the cold wave is not limited to Varanasi. Similar weather conditions are being witnessed across western, central and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Dense fog has reduced visibility on roads, increasing the risk for school buses and other vehicles.
District administrations and the education department are closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Schools Closed In Several Districts
Apart from Varanasi, districts such as Prayagraj, Lucknow, Kanpur and Meerut are also experiencing extreme cold. In some districts, schools up to Class 8 have been closed, while others have revised school timings. Where schools remain open, classes are being held from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm to help students avoid exposure to early morning cold and fog. Parents have been advised to check official school notifications before sending their children.
According to the IMD, a ‘Yellow’ and ‘Orange’ alert has been issued for several parts of Uttar Pradesh for the next 48 hours. In many areas, visibility has dropped to less than 50 metres due to dense fog, raising concerns over road safety. Keeping this in mind, authorities have urged strict compliance with safety guidelines by schools and parents.
In Sambhal district, schools from nursery to Class 12 across all boards will remain closed on December 26 and 27 due to the cold wave and fog.
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Guidelines For Senior Students and Teachers
Schools for Classes 9 to 12 have not been completely shut, as pre-board and board examinations are approaching. However, revised timings have been introduced. Teachers have been instructed to ensure proper heating arrangements in classrooms and allow students to wear heavy woollen clothes. Schools have also been directed not to conduct classes early in the morning or late in the evening.
Parents are advised to stay updated through official school communication channels and district websites as weather conditions may lead to further changes in school schedules.
