The severe cold and cold wave in Bihar are now impacting children’s education. With temperatures continuing to drop and dense fog making it difficult to carry out regular activities, the district administration in several parts of the state has decided to close schools or adjust school timings. This decision comes in light of the declining temperatures and the health risks posed by such weather conditions, particularly to children and the elderly. The meteorological department has indicated that the cold weather might continue for several more days, and as a result, more schools might either extend holidays or suspend educational activities.
Saran District Takes Strict Action with School Closures
In Saran (Chhapra) district, the administration has taken a firm decision to close all schools due to the severe cold wave. Following the orders of the District Magistrate, all government and private schools in the district were declared closed starting Friday. Additionally, the administration has suspended educational activities in all anganwadi centers as well. This order will remain in effect until December 21. However, classes related to board exams have been exempted from this closure to ensure that exam preparations are not affected. The district administration emphasized that children’s health is a priority, and attending school in such extreme cold could pose a risk to their well-being.
Schools in Darbhanga and Sheohar Closed for Classes Up to 8th Grade
In Darbhanga, the district administration has also decided to close all schools up to class 8 in view of the severe cold. The order states that the closure will be in effect until December 22. Similarly, in Sheohar district, schools up to class 8 have been declared closed. In a recent order, Sheohar’s District Magistrate Pratibha Rani stated that for classes above 8th, schools will remain closed for any academic activities before 9:30 AM. This order will be applicable until December 21. The administration has expressed concern over the difficulties children face while traveling to and from school during early morning hours when cold and fog make conditions hazardous.
Patna and Other Districts Adjust School Timings
While schools in Patna have not been closed, the district administration has made adjustments to the school timings due to the extreme cold. According to the recent order from the District Magistrate, all government and private schools in the district will not have any academic activities before 9 AM or after 4:30 PM. This new schedule will be in effect until December 25. Similarly, districts such as Buxar, Sheikhpura, and Siwan have issued similar orders, prohibiting school activities during early morning hours.
Jehanabad Implements Restrictions on Study Hours
In Jehanabad, additional precautions have been taken due to the cold weather. The district administration has restricted academic activities before 10 AM and after 3 PM. Authorities have noted that the combination of cold and fog reduces visibility, increasing the risk of accidents involving children. The decision to limit study hours is aimed at protecting students from potential harm during the early morning and late afternoon hours when conditions are particularly hazardous.
Weather Department’s Warning: No Relief Expected Soon
According to the weather department, there is little chance of relief from the cold wave in Bihar. The minimum temperature is expected to continue dropping, and the cold wave conditions are likely to persist in several areas. Dense fog is expected to continue during the early morning and late evening hours, making it difficult to carry out daily activities. The district administration is keeping a close eye on the situation and will take further steps if necessary, including additional school closures or adjustments.
Parents and Teachers Support the Decisions
The decisions to close schools and adjust timings have been welcomed by both parents and teachers. Many parents believe that sending young children to school in such extreme cold poses a serious health risk. Some parents have also requested that the state government issue uniform guidelines for all districts, ensuring consistency in the decisions made by different administrations. This would help in ensuring that all students across the state receive the same level of protection during the ongoing cold wave.
In summary, the severe cold in Bihar has led to a break in children’s education as schools adjust their schedules or close down entirely. The district administrations are prioritizing the health and safety of students during this extreme weather. With no immediate relief from the cold wave in sight, more decisions may be made in the coming days to ensure the well-being of children and to avoid any health risks associated with the ongoing cold wave. The government and administration are working to find the best possible solutions to balance education and safety during these challenging weather conditions.
