Heavy rains lashed large parts of northern India on August 25, prompting authorities in several districts to order the closure of schools amid rising flood risks. 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts across multiple regions, warning of more intense spells in the coming days.

In Rajasthan’s Jaipur, district officials ordered a two-day closure of all government and private schools, along with Anganwadi centres, on August 25 and 26. 

The directive, issued by District Collector Dr. Jitendra Kumar Soni after IMD’s red alert, applies to classes from pre-primary to Class 12. 

Teachers and staff, however, have been instructed to report to duty, with officials warning that non-compliance will invite action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

In Uttar Pradesh’s Banda district, incessant rainfall forced authorities to suspend classes up to Class 8 for the day. 

The Basic Shiksha Adhikari has been tasked with ensuring strict adherence across council, recognised, and board schools.

Several districts in Uttarakhand — including Chamoli, Uttarkashi, Bageshwar, Dehradun, and Nainital — also ordered the closure of schools and Anganwadi centres on August 25, covering students from Class 1 to 12. 

Officials said the step was taken as a precautionary measure in view of the IMD’s heavy rainfall warning, stressing that “student safety remains the top priority.”

With rivers swelling and flood-like conditions emerging in vulnerable areas, administrations have urged parents and students to exercise caution. 

Further decisions on reopening will depend on weather conditions and updated advisories from the IMD.