Schools across several states in India continue to remain closed as severe cold wave conditions disrupt normal life, prompting authorities to extend winter vacations to protect students’ health and safety. States including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tripura, Jharkhand, and Bihar have announced prolonged closures in response to falling temperatures, dense fog, and hazardous morning conditions.
In Uttar Pradesh, the education department has directed schools to suspend physical classes for younger students in many districts, with officials citing increased risks of illness during early morning hours. Similar measures have been taken in Bihar and Jharkhand, where district administrations have extended winter holidays after reports of extreme cold and limited visibility affecting daily travel.
Rajasthan, already grappling with record-low night temperatures in several regions, has also announced an extension of winter vacation in government and private schools. Education officials said the decision was taken after consulting health authorities, who warned that children are particularly vulnerable to seasonal illnesses during prolonged cold spells.
In the northeastern state of Tripura, schools have remained shut as authorities assess weather conditions and review safety arrangements. Officials noted that while temperatures in the region are not as low as in northern states, cold-related health concerns and foggy mornings have affected attendance and commuting safety.
Education departments across these states said they are closely monitoring weather updates before deciding on reopening dates. In some districts, online classes and digital assignments have been recommended to ensure learning continuity during the extended break, especially for senior students preparing for board examinations.
Parents have largely welcomed the decision, saying the closures prioritize children’s well-being. “It’s better to lose a few school days than risk children falling sick in this cold,” said a parent in Patna. However, some families have expressed concerns about academic delays, particularly for students in higher grades.
School authorities have assured parents that academic calendars will be adjusted to compensate for the lost days. Extra classes, revised timetables, and weekend sessions are being considered once normal operations resume.
Weather experts predict that cold wave conditions may persist in parts of north and central India for the next few days, keeping officials on alert. Education departments have advised schools to remain flexible and prioritize student safety over strict academic schedules.
As winter intensifies, the extended school closures underline the challenges posed by extreme weather to daily life and education systems across the country. Authorities say further decisions will depend on how quickly temperatures stabilize in the coming days.
