Patna, Dec 29: Authorities in Bihar and Jharkhand have extended the closure of schools as severe cold wave conditions continue to affect large parts of the region, raising concerns over students’ health and safety.
In Jharkhand’s capital Ranchi, all government and private schools from kindergarten to Class 12 will remain closed till December 31.
The decision was taken following an advisory from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which has issued a yellow alert for the city due to prevailing cold wave conditions.
According to IMD forecasts, Ranchi’s minimum temperature is expected to remain around 8 degrees Celsius on December 28 and gradually rise to about 10 degrees Celsius by December 31, with moderate fog likely to persist. In view of these conditions, the district administration has ordered a complete suspension of academic activities.
An official order issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) mandates the closure of all schools in Ranchi district from December 27 to December 31, 2025.
In Bihar, the Patna district administration has also extended school closures due to the ongoing cold wave.
The District Magistrate has ordered the suspension of classes in all government and private schools, including Anganwadi centres and pre-schools, up to Class 8 till December 30.
However, students from Class 9 to Class 12 have been allowed to attend classes during revised hours, from 10 am to 3:30 pm. Pre-board and board examinations will continue as per schedule and are exempt from the restrictions.
Officials said the precautionary measures were taken to protect children from prolonged exposure to extremely low temperatures and dense fog, which could pose serious health risks.
