Bareilly schools shut till December 20 as dense fog and severe cold grip UP region

Bareilly schools closed: Schools across Bareilly district up to Class 8 have been ordered to remain closed till December 20 as dense fog and severe cold disrupted normal life, according to an official directive issued by the district administration.

The decision follows deteriorating weather conditions marked by persistent fog, poor visibility and biting cold winds, prompting authorities to prioritise student safety while warning of strict action against any violations of the closure order.

Order issued by district administration
The closure applies to all government, aided and private schools from Classes 1 to 8 operating in the district. Basic Education Officer Dr Vinita confirmed the order was issued on the directions of District Magistrate Avinash Singh, as quoted by the PTI. She said schools would remain shut for three days in view of the cold wave and dense fog conditions.

Dr Vinita, in conversation with the PTI, warned that strict action would be taken against any institution found violating the order. She added that the directive was binding on all schools, irrespective of their management or affiliation.

However, the order clarified that examinations scheduled prior to the announcement would be conducted as planned. Dr Vinita told the PTI that pre-decided examination programmes would not be affected by the temporary closure.

Weather conditions worsen across district
Bareilly and adjoining areas have been reeling under dense fog for the past two days, with fog persisting throughout the day and no sunshine reported. Cold winds further intensified the chill, making conditions particularly harsh during morning and evening hours.

Tuesday was recorded as the coldest day in the district in the last 10 years, with the maximum temperature dropping sharply to 16.3 degrees Celsius. Officials said the combination of fog and cold winds significantly reduced visibility, affecting daily routines and transport movement.

On Wednesday morning, visibility remained extremely low, causing vehicles to move slowly on major roads. Traffic disruptions were reported across the district as commuters navigated through thick fog, increasing the risk of accidents.

Orange alert issued, advisory to residents
Additional District Magistrate Santosh Kumar Singh said the Meteorological Department had issued an orange alert for dense fog for the next three days. He told the PTI that cold winds blowing in from the hills were expected to further aggravate cold wave conditions in the region.

Weather officials cautioned that dense fog was likely to continue in Bareilly and nearby districts, with no immediate relief from the cold spell. The administration advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and take special care of children and the elderly, Singh told the PTI, as authorities continued to monitor the evolving weather situation closely.
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