Schools closed in Bihar, Assam, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand: Here's why

Schools across Bihar, Assam, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand have announced closures for various reasons. Check out the dates here. Students and parents are advised to contact schools for any queries.

In Short

• Schools in Bihar, Jharkhand close for Jiutiya festival
• Uttarakhand schools shut down due to tiger activity
• Assam schools closed until September 27 due to heatwave

This week, schools in Assam, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, and Bihar have announced closures due to a variety of factors, from heatwaves to religious festivals and even tiger activity.

With the school closures making news across multiple states, parents and students are keen to understand the reasons behind these decisions. Here's a breakdown of what’s happening and why.

EXCESSIVE HEAT SHUTS ASSAM SCHOOLS

In Assam’s Kamrup district, schools will remain closed until September 27, 2024, due to the oppressive heat. The district administration, responding to reports of students falling sick and even fainting, took swift action.

The initial step was to adjust school hours to 7:30 am to 12:30 pm and halt all outdoor activities. However, as the heatwave continued, it was decided to close both government and private schools from September 24 to September 27.

"Based on reports of ill health and fainting due to excessive heat and dehydration, all schools under Kamrup Metro district are to remain closed from 24th to 27th September," stated an official notification.

Most schools will reopen on September 30, and parents are encouraged to stay in touch with school administrations for updates.

BIHAR AND JHARKHAND SCHOOLS CLOSE FOR FESTIVAL

In Bihar and Jharkhand, the Jiutiya festival brings a one-day school closure on September 25, 2024.

Jiutiya, a significant festival in these regions, has prompted both states to give students a day off to celebrate.

Schools in Dhanbad district of Jharkhand and across Bihar will remain shut.

TIGER ACTIVITY HALTS CLASSES IN UTTARAKHAND

Unusual circumstances have led to school closures in Uttarakhand. The Jakhnidhar tehsil in the Pauri Garhwal district is dealing with increased tiger activity, prompting authorities to close nine schools and all Anganwadi centres in the Dwarikhal area.

According to District Magistrate Ashish Chauhan, schools will stay closed on September 23 and 24, prioritising the safety of students and staff.