From Punjab to Kerala, States That Shut Schools Due to Heavy Rains, Deferred Exams

In recent days, numerous regions in north India have been relentlessly battered by heavy rainfall, leading to a series of unfortunate events. Hilly states like Himachal Pradesh have witnessed devastating landslides, while cities such as Delhi and Gurgaon have been plagued by flooding and water logging, causing severe congestion. The Northern Railway services have also been temporarily suspended due to the adverse conditions. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), a western disturbance prevailing across northern India has resulted in a fierce rainstorm on Saturday. The relentless downpour and subsequent flooding have compelled several states across the country to cancel school sessions and postpone exams in order to ensure the safety of students.

Here is a list of states, ranging from Delhi NCR to Punjab and Kerala, that have issued orders to shut down schools and institutions:

1. Delhi – NCR: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has declared a holiday today for all schools in Delhi due to the continuous rainfall recorded in NCR and its surrounding cities during the weekend. Notably, this rainfall has broken the record for the highest single-day rainfall in Delhi over the past 41 years. Consequently, schools in Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram will remain closed today. Similarly, schools in Ghaziabad will remain closed until July 15.

2. Punjab: The district administrations in Punjab have announced a holiday for schools on July 10, considering the torrential rains that have disrupted normal life. The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) had scheduled re-appear examinations for 5th and 8th grades today, which have now been postponed. The board will announce the new exam dates in due course.

3. Himachal Pradesh: The state of Himachal Pradesh has been facing relentless and heavy rainfall, leading to water logging and landslides. As a precautionary measure, the Mandi district administration has ordered the closure of all schools and colleges today since the district has received the heaviest rainfall. The downpour is expected to persist across the entire state until July 11.

4. Kerala: The monsoon season, coupled with excessive rainfall, has compelled several districts in Kerala to close schools and institutions. Both Kottayam and Alappuzha districts have declared a holiday for schools and other educational institutions. In these areas, schools have been transformed into relief camps to assist those affected. However, public examinations scheduled for Monday, July 10, will proceed as planned.

The situation remains challenging as the heavy rainfall and its consequences continue to disrupt daily life. It is important for authorities and residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure everyone's safety during this challenging period.