UP, Dec 18 : The Bareilly district administration in Uttar Pradesh has ordered the closure of all schools for primary and middle-grade students from December 18 to 20, citing a severe cold wave and dense fog affecting the region. The directive applies to government, aided, and private schools for Classes 1 to 8.
District Magistrate Avinash Singh, through the District Basic Education Officer Dr. Vinita, emphasized that the measure is a precautionary step to ensure the safety of children, as commuting in near-zero visibility poses significant risks. Any school violating the closure order will face strict disciplinary action.
The closure follows one of Bareilly’s coldest days in a decade, with maximum temperatures dropping to 16.3°C on December 16. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert, warning that dense fog is expected to persist over the next 72 hours. Cold winds from northern hill regions are contributing to the severe chill.
Schools with pre-scheduled examinations during this period are allowed to conduct them as per their timetables to minimize disruption for senior students.
The administration has also urged residents to avoid non-essential travel during peak fog hours and take precautions to protect children and the elderly. Motorists have been warned about increased accident risks due to poor visibility.