Admins across parts of U’khand declare holiday on Jan 24 citing adverse weather

Dehradun: District administrations in Dehradun, Udham Singh Nagar, Tehri, Uttarkashi and Almora on Friday declared a holiday for all schools and anganwadi centres on Saturday, after India Meteorological Department's (IMD) Dehradun centre issued an adverse weather forecast. Chief education officer and district programme officer have been directed to ensure strict compliance, with warnings of action against violations.According to Dehradun district administration, an orange alert has been issued for heavy rain and lightning, along with chances of moderate snowfall. "The possibility of adverse impact in sensitive areas increases. In view of disaster mitigation, a one-day holiday is declared on Jan 24 in all educational institutions and anganwadi centres running from Class 1 to 12," the order stated. The IMD has predicted light to moderate rainfall across Udham Singh Nagar and other parts of Uttarakhand between Jan 23 and Jan 27, with heavy showers likely at isolated locations. A communique from district magistrate's office said the decision prioritises safety of children as continuous rainfall could disrupt movement and pose risks. The order applies to all govt, aided and private schools.Uttarkashi also declared a holiday amid continuous rainfall in lower areas since Friday morning and snowfall in higher regions. Officials warned that the weather increases the likelihood of landslides and avalanches, potentially affecting roads and footpaths. Authorities stressed that these measures are essential to safeguard students and manage potential disasters arising from severe weather conditions. In Almora, the weather forecast stated the possibility of light to moderate rainfall/snowfall in most places of the hilly district from Jan 23 to Jan 29. Snowfall is expected in areas located at an altitude of 2,300 metres and above. (With inputs from Tanmayee Tyagi in Dehradun, Aakash Ahuja in US Nagar, Yogesh Nagarkoti in Bageshwar and Ashish Mishra in Uttarkashi)