Himachal Pradesh University Cancels PG Exams Scheduled for Today Amid Heavy Rains

The Government of Himachal Pradesh has declared the cancellation of all ongoing postgraduate exams scheduled for August 14 due to continuous heavy rainfall. This decision, aimed at prioritizing student safety in light of the recent torrential rains, was taken by Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu. The Education Secretary has further announced the closure of all public and private educational institutions on August 14, following the Chief Minister's directives.

A statement from Himachal Pradesh University confirmed the cancellation of ongoing Post Graduate and B. Ed. exams scheduled for August 14, attributing the decision to the adverse weather conditions caused by heavy rainfall in the state. This comes after an earlier notice declared the closure of all educational institutions in the state on the same date.

Given the persistent heavy rains affecting the entire Himachal Pradesh region, the Government has issued an order to close ITIs, Polytechnic, Engineering, and Pharmacy Colleges, both government and private, on August 14, 2023. The Department of Education also conveyed that all schools and colleges across the state will remain closed on August 14 due to the incessant rainfall.

Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has actively sought input from District Collectors (DC) to assess the extent of damage caused by the severe rains in various districts. He has been informed about road closures, landslides, and property damage. The Chief Minister has instructed the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, and all District Collectors to closely monitor the situation resulting from the heavy rains. Administrative personnel have been advised to stay vigilant and ensure the necessary preparations for maintaining infrastructure such as roads, power, and water systems.

In Shimla, a landslide resulted in the destruction of three parked vehicles along the roadside. Additionally, a landslide near the 103 Tunnel in the state capital temporarily blocked the road due to uprooted trees. The local Meteorological Station has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas from August 14 to 17. The forecast predicts continuous rainfall across the state until August 19.